Introduction
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is one of the most beloved Italian-American dishes. It features tender, breaded chicken cutlets that are pan-fried until crispy, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Served over a bed of pasta, this classic comfort food is a favorite at family dinners, date nights, or any time you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal.
What makes Chicken Parmesan so irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors: the crispy chicken, the tangy tomato sauce, the rich cheese, and the savory seasoning. While the dish is traditionally fried, it can be adapted to suit a variety of preferences, making it a versatile meal option. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or making a healthier, lighter version, Chicken Parmesan is sure to be a hit.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make Chicken Parmesan from scratch, with step-by-step instructions and tips for creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. You’ll also find tips for customizing the recipe and pairing it with side dishes to complete your meal.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Parmesan
- Comforting and Hearty: Chicken Parmesan is a warm and satisfying meal, perfect for feeding the whole family or impressing guests at a dinner party.
- Delicious Combination of Flavors: The contrast of crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese is unbeatable.
- Versatile: Chicken Parmesan is easy to customize to suit your tastes. You can experiment with different sauces, cheeses, and even vegetables to make it your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s one of those dishes that everyone loves, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, potlucks, or family meals.
- Can Be Made Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, making it easier to put together a meal even on busy nights.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per Serving: Around 600-700 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 600-700 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 40-45g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugar: 6-8g
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil (for frying)
For Sauce:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, which will cook more evenly. To ensure an even cook, you can also lightly pound the chicken with a meat mallet to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch.
Next, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:
- Flour: In the first dish, place the flour. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Egg Wash: In the second dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water or milk to create an egg wash.
- Breadcrumbs: In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, coating it evenly, then into the egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Set the breaded chicken aside while you heat the oil for frying.
2. Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
3. Make the Marinara Sauce
While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the marinara sauce. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
4. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken breasts are fried and the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the Chicken Parmesan.
In a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken breasts, spread a small amount of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon more sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring they are generously covered.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Be sure to use enough cheese for a melty, gooey topping.
5. Bake the Chicken Parmesan
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through. If you prefer a golden, slightly crispy top, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Prepare the Pasta
While the Chicken Parmesan is baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. You can toss the pasta with a little bit of olive oil or some of the marinara sauce to prevent sticking and add flavor.
7. Serve the Chicken Parmesan
Once the Chicken Parmesan is baked and the cheese is melted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken breasts on top of the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. You can spoon additional marinara sauce over the top for extra flavor. Pair the dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken breasts, mozzarella, and tomatoes will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your dish.
- Don’t Skip the Breading Process: The breading helps create a crispy, flavorful crust that holds up well against the sauce. Don’t rush through this step.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a spicier marinara sauce, you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder. For a creamier version, mix in some heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
- Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version of Chicken Parmesan, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it, and use part-skim mozzarella cheese.
- Serve with Sides: Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Variations of Chicken Parmesan
- Eggplant Parmesan: For a vegetarian version of Chicken Parmesan, substitute the chicken with slices of eggplant. The eggplant is breaded and fried the same way, then topped with marinara sauce and cheese.
- Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Turn your Chicken Parmesan into a sandwich by placing the breaded chicken on a toasted bun. Add some marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan, and enjoy it as a hearty sandwich.
- Spicy Chicken Parmesan: If you love a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce, or sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper over the breaded chicken before frying.
- Baked Chicken Parmesan: To make this recipe lighter, you can bake the breaded chicken breasts instead of frying them. Simply place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Chicken Parmesan Casserole: For a family-friendly, one-pan meal, try making Chicken Parmesan casserole. Layer the breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and cheese in a baking dish, then bake it all together for a comforting casserole.
Storage and Shelf Life
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken and pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For best results, you can reheat the chicken in the oven to maintain the crispy breading.
If you want to freeze Chicken Parmesan, you can freeze the breaded and cooked chicken breasts before adding the sauce and cheese. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then bake it with the sauce and cheese as usual.
Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Parmesan
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up any extra marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of Chicken Parmesan.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli make a healthy and colorful addition to the meal.
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: For an extra pasta side, spaghetti aglio e olio (spaghetti with garlic and olive oil) is simple yet flavorful.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Description
Breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection. This comforting and flavorful Chicken Parmesan is an Italian classic that’s sure to please any crowd, served over pasta or on its own.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6–8 ounces each)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil (for frying)
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- 12 ounces spaghetti or your choice of pasta
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, which will cook more evenly. To ensure an even cook, you can also lightly pound the chicken with a meat mallet to a uniform thickness of about ½ inch.
Next, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:
- Flour: In the first dish, place the flour. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Egg Wash: In the second dish, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water or milk to create an egg wash.
- Breadcrumbs: In the third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, coating it evenly, then into the egg wash, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Set the breaded chicken aside while you heat the oil for frying.
2. Fry the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
3. Make the Marinara Sauce
While the chicken is frying, you can prepare the marinara sauce. In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
4. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the chicken breasts are fried and the sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the Chicken Parmesan.
In a baking dish large enough to fit the chicken breasts, spread a small amount of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce. Spoon more sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring they are generously covered.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Be sure to use enough cheese for a melty, gooey topping.
5. Bake the Chicken Parmesan
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through. If you prefer a golden, slightly crispy top, you can broil the chicken for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking. Be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Prepare the Pasta
While the Chicken Parmesan is baking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and return it to the pot. You can toss the pasta with a little bit of olive oil or some of the marinara sauce to prevent sticking and add flavor.
7. Serve the Chicken Parmesan
Once the Chicken Parmesan is baked and the cheese is melted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the chicken breasts on top of the cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. You can spoon additional marinara sauce over the top for extra flavor. Pair the dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-700 kcal
- Fat: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
- Protein: 40-45g
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy, breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Parmesan never goes out of style.
By following this recipe and using the tips and variations provided, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and perfectly balanced. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved Italian-American meals in your own kitchen!