Make the best chicken parmesan recipe with crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese. A delicious Italian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Chicken Parmesan Recipe – Crispy, Cheesy & Irresistible

When it comes to classic Italian-American comfort food, nothing beats a chicken parmesan recipe. With its crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is the perfect mix of flavor and texture. Whether you serve it with pasta, a fresh salad, or garlic bread, it’s the kind of dinner that turns any night into a special occasion.

The good news? You don’t need to go to a fancy restaurant to enjoy it. This homemade version is easy, flavorful, and comes together in under an hour. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever ordered it out.


Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g / 1.3 lbs) – Pounded to even thickness.
  • 1 tsp salt (5g)
  • ½ tsp black pepper (2g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g) – For dredging.
  • 2 large eggs – Beaten.
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (120g) – Italian-style preferred.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g) – For extra flavor in the coating.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml) – For frying.
  • 2 tbsp butter (30g) – Helps achieve golden crispiness.

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (480ml) – Homemade or store-bought.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (100g)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
  • Fresh basil leaves – Optional, for garnish.

How to Make This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Homemade chicken parmesan with golden crust and fresh basil garnish

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

  1. Prepare the Chicken
    Pat chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
  2. Bread the Chicken
    Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks.
  3. Pan-Fry Until Golden
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Assemble in a Baking Dish
    Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place chicken on top, spoon remaining sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake Until Melty & Bubbly
    Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and chicken is fully cooked (internal temp: 74°C / 165°F). Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Close-up of baked chicken parmesan with layers of cheese and tomato sauce
  1. Extra Crispy Tip: For an even crunchier coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
  2. Healthier Option: Bake breaded chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes instead of pan-frying before adding sauce and cheese.
  3. Add a Kick: Mix chili flakes into the breadcrumbs for a subtle spice.
  4. Serving Suggestion: Pair with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or even a crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce.

Why This Chicken Parmesan Recipe Works

Crispy chicken parmesan in a skillet with bubbling cheese topping

The combination of pan-frying and baking ensures you get a crispy coating that stays crunchy even under the sauce and cheese. The Parmesan in the breadcrumbs adds a nutty, salty depth, while the mozzarella melts into a gooey blanket of cheesy goodness. The marinara ties it all together with bright, tangy flavor — making every bite irresistible.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for weeknight dinners, date nights, and even dinner parties.


FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work perfectly. They may need 2–3 extra minutes of cooking time.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Bread and fry the chicken, let it cool, then assemble with sauce and cheese just before baking.

3. What can I do with leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the coating crispy.


Watch the full step-by-step video tutorial on YouTube to master this delicious recipe!

Now it’s your turn!
Make this chicken parmesan recipe tonight for a cheesy, crispy, and utterly satisfying dinner. For more delicious chicken recipes, explore 100+ ideas at greenbeancasserolerecipe.com.

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