Introduction: A Classic Italian-American Favorite

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a beloved dish featuring crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This homemade Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with a perfectly crunchy coating, juicy chicken, and a deliciously cheesy topping. Serve it over pasta or with a side of garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Golden: A perfectly breaded chicken cutlet that stays crunchy.
• Rich and Savory: Marinara sauce infused with Italian herbs.
• Cheesy Perfection: A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for the best melt.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients with step-by-step guidance.

Ingredients: The Secret to the Best Chicken Parmesan

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded thin)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little spice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

For Assembly:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil (for garnish)
• 8 oz spaghetti or preferred pasta (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Parmesan

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Butterfly the chicken breasts and pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.
2. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

2. Bread the Chicken

1. Place flour in one shallow dish.
2. Beat eggs in a second shallow dish.
3. In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

3. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4. Make the Marinara Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in fresh basil or parsley and remove from heat.

5. Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
3. Place the fried chicken cutlets in the dish.
4. Spoon additional marinara sauce over each cutlet.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh basil, and serve over pasta or with a side of garlic bread for a truly indulgent meal!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

• Use freshly grated Parmesan – It adds richer flavor and melts better.
• Pound chicken evenly – Ensures quick and even cooking.
• Double-breading method – Press breadcrumbs firmly for a crispier coating.
• Let the fried chicken rest before baking – Helps retain crispiness.
• Don’t overbake – Just long enough to melt the cheese.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Italian Classic

This homemade Chicken Parmesan recipe brings together crispy, juicy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for an unforgettable dish. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch, flavor, and cheesy goodness!