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chicken parmesan recipe
Catherine

chicken parmesan recipe

Crispy, saucy, and cheesy—this Chicken Parmesan recipe is a classic Italian-American favorite. Tender chicken breasts are coated in breadcrumbs, fried to perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for garnishing
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped (optional garnish)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook more evenly.
Set up a breading station:
  1. In one shallow dish, add the flour.
  2. In a second shallow dish, whisk the beaten eggs.
  3. In a third shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
Bread the chicken:
  1. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess.
  2. Dip into the egg mixture.
  3. Coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres well.
  4. Fry the chicken: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Top with sauce and cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Make ahead: You can bread the chicken earlier in the day and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
  • Sauce choice: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara.
  • Serving suggestions: Serve with pasta (like spaghetti or penne), roasted vegetables, or a side salad.
  • Extra crisp: For an even crispier crust, use panko breadcrumbs and add a little olive oil spray before baking.