Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. A delightful combination of crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey, melted cheese, it’s a recipe that brings smiles and satisfies cravings with every bite. Its Italian-American roots make it a beloved staple, whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for family gatherings.
I still remember the first time I helped my grandmother make Chicken Parmesan. Her small kitchen, filled with the aroma of freshly chopped garlic and bubbling marinara, felt like the heart of our family. She would hum her favorite tune as she dredged the chicken, her hands moving effortlessly through the motions. The result was a plate of golden, cheesy perfection that we enjoyed together, laughing and sharing stories. It wasn’t just the taste that made it special—it was the memories we built around it. This recipe holds that same magic, ready to create new memories for you and your loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: This recipe is straightforward, with easy-to-follow steps, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
- Family Favorite: Its kid-approved flavors and hearty portions make it a surefire hit with everyone at the table.
- Versatile Pairings: Chicken Parmesan pairs beautifully with pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare components in advance, making it convenient for busy schedules.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this dish always impresses.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds) - For Breading:
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup plain breadcrumbs
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - For Cooking and Topping:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 ⅓ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. For even cooking, place the chicken between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet until about ½ inch thick.
Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station
- Create a breading assembly line with three shallow bowls:
- Add flour to the first bowl.
- Beat eggs in the second bowl.
- Combine plain breadcrumbs, panko, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
- Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring every surface is well coated. Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes to help the coating adhere.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if necessary.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken.
- Place slices of fresh mozzarella on top, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil.
- Serve immediately with spaghetti, penne, or a crisp side salad. Don’t forget the garlic bread!
Helpful Tips for Success
- Uniform Thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks evenly and remains tender.
- Breadcrumb Mix: Combining panko with traditional breadcrumbs adds a satisfying crunch.
- Fresh Mozzarella: While pre-shredded mozzarella works, fresh mozzarella melts creamier and elevates the dish.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara sauce can bring an extra layer of flavor, but high-quality store-bought options save time.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry and Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Notes
- For gluten-free adaptations, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: ~560
- Protein: 43g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 31g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They are juicier but may require slightly longer cooking time.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Absolutely! Freeze baked Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until warmed through.
What sides pair well with Chicken Parmesan?
Classic options include spaghetti, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or garlic knots.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain crispiness, or use a microwave for convenience.
Related Recipes
If you love this recipe, you’ll enjoy these other comforting classics:
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt dish that brings people together. Whether you’re cooking for a quiet dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe will leave everyone at the table happy and satisfied. Give it a try, and let the aroma of this classic comfort dish fill your home, creating new memories with every delicious bite!
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Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Comfort Dish for Every Occasion
Description
Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. A delightful combination of crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey, melted cheese, it’s a recipe that brings smiles and satisfies cravings with every bite. Its Italian-American roots make it a beloved staple, whether enjoyed as a weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for family gatherings.
I still remember the first time I helped my grandmother make Chicken Parmesan. Her small kitchen, filled with the aroma of freshly chopped garlic and bubbling marinara, felt like the heart of our family. She would hum her favorite tune as she dredged the chicken, her hands moving effortlessly through the motions. The result was a plate of golden, cheesy perfection that we enjoyed together, laughing and sharing stories. It wasn’t just the taste that made it special—it was the memories we built around it. This recipe holds that same magic, ready to create new memories for you and your loved ones.
Ingredients
- Chicken:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds) - For Breading:
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup plain breadcrumbs
¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - For Cooking and Topping:
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 ⅓ cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner pieces. For even cooking, place the chicken between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound with a meat mallet until about ½ inch thick.
Step 2: Set Up a Breading Station
- Create a breading assembly line with three shallow bowls:
- Add flour to the first bowl.
- Beat eggs in the second bowl.
- Combine plain breadcrumbs, panko, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.
- Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring every surface is well coated. Let the breaded chicken rest for a few minutes to help the coating adhere.
Step 4: Pan-Fry the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if necessary.
- Once browned, transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece of chicken.
- Place slices of fresh mozzarella on top, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for 2–3 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil.
- Serve immediately with spaghetti, penne, or a crisp side salad. Don’t forget the garlic bread!
Notes
- For gluten-free adaptations, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.