Golden, crispy chicken parmesan topped with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce, garnished with fresh basil, served on a white plate with spaghetti.

Chicken Parmesan : Crispy, Cheesy, and Absolutely Delicious!

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Introduction

Imagine biting into a golden, crispy chicken cutlet, smothered in a rich tomato sauce and bubbling, gooey mozzarella cheese. That’s chicken parmesan—a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to make the best, easiest, and healthiest chicken parmesan from scratch. Follow along for step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and ways to customize this classic dish to your taste!

Chicken Parmesan Recipe card

Description : A classic Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 450 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound them lightly to ensure even thickness.
  2. Coat the Chicken: Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Bread the Cutlets: Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip into the eggs, and then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil and vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry each cutlet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Place on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fried chicken in a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, and top with shredded mozzarella.
  6. Bake: Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh basil on top and serve hot with pasta or a side salad.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • For a lighter version, bake instead of frying.
  • Try homemade marinara sauce for added depth of flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 20g

Why You’ll Love This chicken parmesan

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
  • Crispy & Cheesy: Perfectly golden crust with gooey cheese.
  • Healthy Option: Can be baked instead of fried.
  • Kid-Friendly: Loved by all ages!
  • Restaurant-Quality: Just like your favorite Italian spot.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Chicken Breasts: You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier version.
  • Breadcrumbs: Swap with panko for extra crunch.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
  • Marinara Sauce: Opt for homemade sauce or a high-quality store-bought version.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan (Step-by-Step)

Crispy Chicken Parmesan with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil, served over spaghetti.
A classic, cheesy Chicken Parmesan—crispy, saucy, and absolutely delicious!

1. Pound the Chicken
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender, preventing dry or undercooked spots.

2. Bread the Chicken
Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:

  • Flour: Lightly coat the chicken in all-purpose flour to help the egg stick.
  • Egg Wash: Dip the floured chicken in beaten eggs to create a binding layer.
  • Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the chicken in a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a crispy texture. You can use Italian-style breadcrumbs or panko for added crunch.

3. Fry to Perfection
Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken into the pan and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. This step locks in the juiciness while creating a delicious crust. Transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

4. Bake with Cheese
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish, place the crispy chicken cutlets on top, and spoon more sauce over each piece. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. For a golden, slightly crispy cheese topping, broil for the last 2 minutes.

5. Garnish & Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and an extra layer of fresh, aromatic flavor. Serve your Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy this classic comfort dish with a healthy twist by using baked chicken instead of fried, or swapping regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat or almond flour!

Expert Tips for Success

  • Don’t Skip the Flour: It helps the breading stick.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the Cutlets Rest: This prevents the coating from falling off.

Variations and Customizations

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds.
  • Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes to the breading.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Over spaghetti with extra marinara.
  • Healthy: With a fresh green salad.
  • Low-Carb: Paired with roasted veggies.
Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor—this chicken parmesan is a must-try! 🍽️✨

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to make chicken parmesan crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and fry in hot oil for a crispy crust.

Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?

Yes! Bread and fry the chicken, then assemble and bake when ready.

Is chicken parmesan healthy?

When baked, it’s a lighter, protein-rich meal with less fat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! They’ll be juicier and just as delicious.

Related Recipes

  • Baked Eggplant Parmesan – A vegetarian take on this classic.
  • Garlic Butter Chicken Breast – Juicy and flavorful.
  • Homemade Marinara Sauce – Perfect for pairing with chicken parmesan.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make chicken parmesan, it’s time to give it a try! This easy and delicious recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you fry or bake it, serve it with pasta or salad, one thing is certain—you’re in for a mouthwatering meal.

Try this best chicken parmesan recipe today, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!

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