There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of Chicken Parmesan paired with a rich, tangy marinara sauce and gooey, melted cheese. This classic Italian-American dish is the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness.
I first made this recipe on a cold winter evening, looking for something comforting yet easy to prepare. Since then, it’s become a go-to meal for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible Chicken Parmesan. From its tantalizing flavors to its ease of preparation, this dish checks all the boxes.
First, it’s incredibly simple to make. While it tastes like a restaurant-quality dish, this recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights when you’re craving something hearty and homemade.
It’s also family-approved! Kids love the crispy chicken and cheesy topping, while adults appreciate its bold, comforting flavors. Serve it with pasta, salad, or even a crusty piece of garlic bread for a meal everyone will devour.
Another reason to love this recipe? It’s budget-friendly. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
Lastly, it’s endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re gluten-free or looking to make it a little lighter, there are plenty of easy ways to tweak this recipe while keeping all the deliciousness intact.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Chicken Parmesan lies in the perfect balance of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and ooey-gooey cheese. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to make this dish shine.
The star of the show is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. For best results, pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure it cooks evenly. This also helps it stay tender and juicy.
For the coating, you’ll need a combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Using both creates that golden, crispy crust that makes Chicken Parmesan so irresistible. Panko breadcrumbs are my favorite for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
The sauce is equally important. A good-quality marinara sauce is key here. Whether you use homemade or your favorite store-bought brand, make sure it’s rich and flavorful.
You can’t forget the cheese! Mozzarella cheese is classic for melting beautifully, while a sprinkle of additional Parmesan on top adds extra depth and flavor.
Lastly, a few pantry staples like eggs, flour, olive oil, and seasonings round out the ingredients. If you don’t already have these on hand, they’re easy to pick up at your local grocery store.
How to Make This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Making Chicken Parmesan at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating this mouthwatering dish.
Start by preparing the chicken. Lay your chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about ½ inch thickness. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
Set up your breading station. In one bowl, add flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs with a splash of water. In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of Italian seasoning.
Coat each piece of chicken by dredging it in the flour, then dipping it in the egg mixture, and finally pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum crunch.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a generous layer of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, cook the chicken in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
Top each piece with a spoonful of marinara sauce, spreading it evenly. Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once baked, let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with spaghetti, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage Options
Chicken Parmesan is just as delightful the next day, making it a great recipe for meal prep or leftovers.
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked chicken (without the sauce and cheese) for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, use the oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, but the coating may not be as crisp.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about Chicken Parmesan is its versatility. Here are a few ways to make this recipe your own.
For a lighter version, try baking the breaded chicken instead of frying it. Arrange the coated chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Looking to make it gluten-free? Swap regular flour for gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. You won’t even notice the difference!
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or mix some cayenne into the breadcrumb coating for a kick of heat.
You can also experiment with cheeses. Provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar can be used for a unique twist on the classic.
No marinara on hand? Substitute with your favorite pasta sauce or even a creamy Alfredo for a totally different flavor profile.
Chicken Parmesan is a recipe that invites creativity, so don’t be afraid to try something new. Whether you stick to the classic or put your own spin on it, this dish is sure to be a hit at your table.
PrintChicken Parmesan Recipe
Learn how to make the best Chicken Parmesan with crispy breaded chicken cutlets, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip into eggs, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Serve over spaghetti or with a side of salad for a complete meal.
- Use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
Leave a Reply