Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” is a beloved Italian-American classic featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hearty dish is full of bold, comforting flavors and is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night at home.

ingredients

Chicken Parmesan Recipe 10 Chicken Parmesan, or "Chicken Parmigiana," is a beloved Italian-American classic featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hearty dish is full of bold, comforting flavors and is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy date night at home.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastssaltblack pepperflourlarge eggsItalian-style breadcrumbsgrated Parmesan cheeseshredded mozzarella cheesemarinara saucespaghetti or pasta (optional)olive oilfresh basil (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.

Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make thinner cutlets. Season with salt and pepper.

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.

Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the cutlets for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown (do not cook through). Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.

Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet and top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

Bake for 12–15 minutes or until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through (165°F internal temperature).

Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve over pasta or on its own.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for a juicier version.

Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for a spicy kick.

Top with provolone instead of mozzarella for a different melt.

Make it lighter by baking the breaded cutlets instead of frying.

Serve on sandwich rolls for a Chicken Parm sub.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in short bursts.For freezing, store breaded cutlets separately and add sauce and cheese after reheating for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, a good quality jarred sauce works great and saves time.

What kind of breadcrumbs are best?

Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor, but plain can work with added seasoning.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake breaded cutlets at 400°F for 20 minutes before topping with sauce and cheese.

Is Chicken Parmesan gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make it suitable for gluten-free diets.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.

Why is my chicken dry?

Avoid overcooking. Thin cutlets cook quickly and should be checked with a thermometer.

What cheese can I substitute for mozzarella?

Try provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Thaw fully before breading and cooking for best results.

What side dishes go well with Chicken Parmesan?

Spaghetti, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad pair perfectly.

Can I make a large batch?

Yes, double the recipe and use two baking sheets for bigger crowds.

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless, satisfying dish that combines crispy chicken with savory sauce and gooey cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal. Easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive for guests, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Serve it with pasta or a side salad for a truly complete dinner experience.