Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Golden, crispy chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella—this chicken parmesan recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive for guests, it delivers bold Italian flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy bite. Pair it with pasta or pile it onto a sandwich roll for a delicious homemade meal that's always a hit.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- For the Sauce and Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts in half to make thin cutlets. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs and milk in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan in a third.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in egg wash, and coat with breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so it sticks.
- Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1/4 inch oil over medium heat. Fry each cutlet 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place fried cutlets in the dish. Top each with sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches so cutlets stay crispy.
- Use Thin Cutlets: They cook faster and more evenly.
- Drain Well: Let fried chicken rest on paper towels or a wire rack.
- Homemade Sauce Bonus: Use your favorite homemade marinara for deeper flavor.
- Double the Batch: Freeze one for a future dinner.