Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Recipe You Can Perfect at Home

Crispy breaded chicken smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese—it’s no wonder Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe combines comfort and elegance in every bite.

Making Chicken Parmesan from scratch might sound intimidating, but it’s easier than you think. With just a little prep and the right techniques, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that’s bursting with flavor. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect Chicken Parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This recipe ticks all the boxes for an unforgettable meal:

• Crispy and Juicy: Perfectly breaded chicken stays moist on the inside and crunchy on the outside.
• Cheesy Goodness: Gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan take this dish to the next level.
• Kid-Friendly: A guaranteed hit for picky eaters and adults alike.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasoning or pair with your favorite pasta for variety.
• Simple Prep: With a few easy steps, you’ll have a masterpiece ready to serve.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic dish:

Chicken and Coating

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	1 ½ pounds	Cut into four thin cutlets.
All-purpose flour	½ cup	Helps the coating stick.
Egg	1 large	Acts as a binding agent.
Water	1 tbsp	Loosens the egg mixture.
Italian seasoned bread crumbs	½ cup	Adds flavor and texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese	¼ cup	For the coating and extra topping.
Italian seasoning	1 tsp	Adds a herby touch.
Garlic powder	1 tsp	Enhances flavor in the coating.
Salt	¾ tsp	Plus more for seasoning the chicken.
Black pepper	¼ tsp	Adjust to taste.

Toppings and Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Marinara sauce	½ cup	Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce.
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 cup	Part-skim for melting perfectly.
Fresh parsley or basil	Optional	For garnish and fresh flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Parmesan

1. Preheat Your Oven

1. Set your oven to 425°F and grease a baking sheet or dish with cooking spray or a light coating of oil.
2. This ensures the chicken doesn’t stick and helps it cook evenly.

2. Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets.
2. If needed, place the cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook uniformly.

3. Set Up the Breading Stations

Prepare three shallow dishes for breading:

• Dish 1: Add the flour.
• Dish 2: Whisk the egg with water until well combined.
• Dish 3: Mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

4. Bread the Chicken

1. Lightly season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
2. Coat each piece in flour, shaking off the excess.
3. Dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Finally, press it into the bread crumb mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly.

5. Bake the Chicken

1. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Bake in the upper third of the oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches about 150°F.

6. Add the Sauce and Cheese

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each piece.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, along with extra Parmesan if desired.

7. Finish Baking

1. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 3–8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F.

8. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle the chicken with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
2. Pair it with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

1. Use Thin Cutlets: Thinner chicken cooks more evenly and crisps up better.
2. Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Properly seasoning each layer ensures maximum flavor.
3. Freshly Grated Cheese: Grating Parmesan from a block gives better flavor and texture than pre-grated cheese.
4. Bake, Don’t Fry: Baking keeps the chicken crispy without the mess or extra calories from frying.
5. Check Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan

While Chicken Parmesan is a showstopper on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal:

• Spaghetti: Tossed with marinara sauce for a classic pairing.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp greens balance the richness of the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	400–450
Protein	38g
Carbohydrates	16g
Fat	20g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	600–700mg

FAQs About Chicken Parmesan

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They’re juicier but may require a slightly longer cooking time.

2. Can I make Chicken Parmesan gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs for a delicious gluten-free version.

3. Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan in advance?

You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Add the sauce and cheese just before the final bake.

4. What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

Choose a high-quality marinara sauce with minimal added sugar or make your own at home for a fresher taste.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze fully cooked Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

6. What other cheeses can I use?

Provolone or fontina cheese can be used alongside mozzarella for extra flavor.

Why Chicken Parmesan is a Must-Try Recipe

This dish combines the comforting flavors of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese into one irresistible package. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Conclusion: Make Chicken Parmesan Tonight

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a homemade meal that tastes as good as it looks. This Chicken Parmesan Recipe is a foolproof way to wow your family and friends with minimal effort.

Ready to get started? Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven—it’s time to create a masterpiece!

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