Description
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-inspired dish made with crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It is golden, flavorful, and satisfying, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinner occasions. The combination of crunchy coating, savory tomato sauce, and creamy cheese creates a comforting and restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ¼ cups panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup vegetable oil (divided for frying)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 teaspoons chopped parsley or basil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C) and position rack in the center
- Pat chicken breasts dry using paper towels
- Place chicken between plastic wrap and flatten to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with olive oil, one with panko and parmesan combined
- Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess
- Dip into egg mixture, coating fully
- Press into breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated
- Heat ½ cup vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
- Fry chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown
- Reduce heat to medium and cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C)
- Remove and drain on paper towels, then place on a wire rack
- Repeat frying process with remaining chicken using fresh oil
- Place fried chicken in a baking dish
- Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese
- Bake for 3–5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly
- Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving
Notes
- Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad
- Add extra parmesan cheese before serving for stronger flavor
- Best served immediately while cheese is melted and crispy coating is intact
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for best texture instead of microwave
- Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce and cheese) for up to 2 months
- Add fresh sauce and cheese after reheating for best results