Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish offers the perfect balance of crispy, juicy, and cheesy flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners and special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The chicken is perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- A rich marinara sauce adds a savory depth of flavor.
- Melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese create a deliciously gooey topping.
- It pairs well with pasta, salads, or roasted vegetables.
- A great option for meal prep, as it reheats well.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness
- Salt and pepper
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Italian breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Marinara sauce
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Dried oregano
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Baked Instead of Fried: Skip frying and bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the breaded chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months. Reheat and add sauce before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Avoid adding too much sauce before baking, and serve immediately after cooking for the crispiest texture.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well but may require a few extra minutes of cooking time.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
Italian-style breadcrumbs provide the best flavor, but panko breadcrumbs add extra crispiness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
It pairs well with spaghetti, garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely. Use your favorite brand or make homemade marinara for a fresher taste.
How do I prevent soggy chicken?
Let excess sauce drain off before baking, and place the chicken on a wire rack instead of directly on a baking dish.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese alternatives or skip the cheese entirely.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
No, but you can make it keto-friendly by using almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with pasta or a light salad, its crispy texture and cheesy topping make it a family favorite. Try the variations to customize it to your taste, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal.