Chicken Parmesan Recipe – Crispy, Cheesy, and Perfect for Dinner

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that features crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a perfect meal for family dinners or a special occasion, combining savory flavors and textures that everyone will love. This homemade Chicken Parmesan Recipe is not only easy to make but also ensures that you get a crispy, cheesy, and saucy dish that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe: Chicken Parmesan recipe

This Chicken Parmesan Recipe is the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness and tangy marinara sauce. It’s a comforting dish that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The chicken is tender on the inside with a deliciously crispy crust, and the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese creates a rich, savory topping. The homemade (or store-bought) marinara sauce adds a tangy balance, while the fresh basil garnish provides a pop of freshness. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional for garnish)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions: Chicken Parmesan recipe

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two thinner pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and ensures a juicy result. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken pieces to an even thickness of about ½ inch. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
2. Set Up a Breading Station:
   In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. Place flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third. Dip each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken cutlets. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the coating is golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once fried, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Prepare the Chicken Parmesan for Baking:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken cutlets in the dish, and spoon additional marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, covering them generously but leaving the edges exposed for extra crispiness. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each chicken cutlet.
5. Bake the Chicken Parmesan:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). For a golden-brown finish, you can broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken parmesan rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for an added burst of flavor and color. Serve the Chicken Parmesan over spaghetti, or alongside garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Sugar: 5g

Notes: Chicken Parmesan recipe

1. Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour. Be sure to check the labels of your marinara sauce as well.
2. Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese substitutes for the Parmesan and mozzarella, and make sure your breadcrumbs are also dairy-free.
3. Leftovers: Leftover Chicken Parmesan can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Health Benefits of Chicken Parmesan Recipe:

1. High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
2. Rich in Calcium: The cheese used in this recipe provides a good amount of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth.
3. Balanced Meal: This dish combines protein, fats, and carbs, making it a satisfying and balanced meal when served with a side of vegetables or whole grains.

Other Recipes :Fresh Vegetarian Salad Recipes for Healthy Meals

FAQs for Chicken Parmesan Recipe:

1. Can I make Chicken Parmesan recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken cutlets ahead of time by breading and frying them. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, top with marinara sauce and cheese, then bake as directed.

2. What sides go well with Chicken Parmesan recipe?
Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan recipe?
Absolutely! After frying the chicken and assembling it with the marinara sauce and cheese, you can freeze the dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier version of this dish. Just be sure to use boneless, skinless thighs and follow the same breading and frying process. The bake time may need to be adjusted slightly since thighs can be thicker than breasts.

5. How can I make a lighter version of this dish?
To make a lighter version of Chicken Parmesan recipe, you can bake the breaded chicken cutlets instead of frying them. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray, place the breaded chicken on the sheet, and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, before proceeding with the marinara and cheese.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Parmesan Recipe brings together all the classic Italian-American flavors we love—crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, and it’s easy enough to make at home without much fuss. Whether you serve it over pasta or with a side of salad and garlic bread, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Plus, with easy modifications for gluten-free or dairy-free diets, it’s a versatile recipe that anyone can enjoy. Give it a try, and make it a regular on your dinner table!