Classic Chicken Parmesan Savory and Simple Recipe

by Chloe on January 23, 2025

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m sharing my Classic Chicken Parmesan recipe, which is both savory and simple. If you’ve ever wanted to impress family or friends with a delicious meal, you’re in the right place. This dish is all about crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. I’ll guide you through each step, from ingredients to serving suggestions. Let’s dive in and create this timeless favorite together!

$- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning - ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - Salt and freshly ground black pepper - Olive oil for frying - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Garlic powder for a hint of flavor - Red pepper flakes for some heat - Fresh parsley for extra color - Lemon zest for a fresh twist - Three shallow dishes for the breading process - A large skillet for frying - A baking dish for the oven - A meat mallet to pound the chicken - A sharp knife for slicing and serving - Paper towels for patting the chicken dry When you gather these ingredients and tools, you set yourself up for success. Each item plays a role in making your Chicken Parmesan crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Don't skip the optional ingredients; they can take your dish to the next level! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by gathering your chicken breasts. Use two boneless, skinless breasts for the best results. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This keeps the breading from getting soggy. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds flavor to the meat. Next, set up your breading station. You need three shallow dishes for this. - In the first dish, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. - In the second dish, beat 2 large eggs until they are smooth. - In the third dish, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Now, take each chicken breast. First, coat it in the flour mixture. Shake off any extra flour. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs. Let the excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to make sure it sticks well. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken. Fry each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. After frying, place the chicken in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, covering them well. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Make sure to use enough cheese to cover each chicken breast. Now, bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. It should also turn a lovely golden brown. After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for the final touch. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan! To make your Chicken Parmesan extra crispy, follow these steps: - Use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and crunchy texture. - Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs. This boosts flavor and crunch. - Double-bread the chicken. Coat it twice for a thicker, crispier layer. - Fry in hot oil. Make sure the oil shimmers before adding chicken. These tips help you get that perfect crunch with every bite. Here are some mistakes to watch out for when making Chicken Parmesan: - Skipping the drying step. Always pat the chicken dry first. This helps the breading stick better. - Not seasoning enough. A pinch of salt and pepper on the chicken makes a big difference. - Overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches to keep the oil hot and achieve even cooking. - Forgetting to let the cheese melt. Bake long enough for a bubbly, golden topping. Avoiding these pitfalls will lead to a more delicious dish. To serve Classic Chicken Parmesan, consider these ideas: - Pair it with spaghetti. Toss the pasta in olive oil and garlic for a tasty side. - Add a fresh salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the dish well. - Garnish with fresh basil. This adds color and a burst of flavor. - Serve with crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce. These serving suggestions enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese to elevate the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan. Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunchy coating, fry the chicken twice, allowing it to rest for a few minutes between fryings. Let It Rest: After baking, let the Chicken Parmesan sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese to set and makes slicing easier. Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to switch up the marinara sauce with a white sauce or pesto for a unique twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan. {{image_4}} To make gluten-free chicken Parmesan, you can swap the flour and panko. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. These options will still give you that crispy texture. When frying, be careful to avoid cross-contamination. You want to keep everything gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal! You can change up the cheeses in your chicken Parmesan. Try using provolone or gouda for a new flavor. Mixing mozzarella with a bit of feta adds a nice salty touch. Feel free to experiment! Each cheese brings its own taste and texture. You might find a new favorite combo. Adding vegetables can make your chicken Parmesan even better. You can roast zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach and place them on the side. This not only boosts flavor but also adds color to your plate. A side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic complements the dish well. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for extra crunch. These additions make your meal balanced and delicious! To store leftover Chicken Parmesan, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to cover the top tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option. When you reheat Chicken Parmesan, aim to keep it crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it lightly with foil to prevent drying. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Check that it's heated through before serving. This method helps the cheese stay gooey while keeping the coating crispy. Freezing Chicken Parmesan is easy. First, let it cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag or container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal without the fuss! You can use regular breadcrumbs if you need to. They work well, but they might not be as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a fun crunch. For gluten-free options, try ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Each choice gives a unique texture and flavor to your Chicken Parmesan. Yes, you can prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. You can bread the chicken and fry it, then store it in the fridge. When you're ready to eat, just add the marinara and cheese, then bake it. This method saves time and keeps the flavors fresh. A classic side dish is spaghetti. Toss it in olive oil and garlic for a simple, tasty pairing. You can also serve a fresh salad with greens and a light dressing. Garlic bread is another great option. It adds a nice crunch and flavor to your meal. You learned how to make Chicken Parmesan from scratch. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best results. You now know how to elevate the dish with options like gluten-free breading or adding veggies. Remember to store your leftovers properly and reheat them for tasty meals later. With these tools and techniques, you can create a delicious Chicken Parmesan that impresses everyone. Enjoy your cooking journey!$

Why I Love This Recipe

Deliciously Crispy: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and frying creates a delightful crunch that elevates the dish.
Comfort Food Classic: This Chicken Parmesan is a comforting dish that hits all the right notes with its rich flavors.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personal twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe impresses every time.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 large eggs, beaten

– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 cup marinara sauce

– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper

– Olive oil for frying

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor

– Garlic powder for a hint of flavor

– Red pepper flakes for some heat

– Fresh parsley for extra color

– Lemon zest for a fresh twist

Recommended Kitchen Tools

– Three shallow dishes for the breading process

– A large skillet for frying

– A baking dish for the oven

– A meat mallet to pound the chicken

– A sharp knife for slicing and serving

– Paper towels for patting the chicken dry

When you gather these ingredients and tools, you set yourself up for success. Each item plays a role in making your Chicken Parmesan crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Don’t skip the optional ingredients; they can take your dish to the next level!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken for Breading

Start by gathering your chicken breasts. Use two boneless, skinless breasts for the best results. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This keeps the breading from getting soggy. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step adds flavor to the meat.

The Breading Process Explained

Next, set up your breading station. You need three shallow dishes for this.

– In the first dish, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.

– In the second dish, beat 2 large eggs until they are smooth.

– In the third dish, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Now, take each chicken breast. First, coat it in the flour mixture. Shake off any extra flour. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs. Let the excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to make sure it sticks well.

Frying and Baking the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken. Fry each piece for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color.

After frying, place the chicken in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, covering them well. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Make sure to use enough cheese to cover each chicken breast.

Now, bake the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble. It should also turn a lovely golden brown. After baking, let the dish sit for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for the final touch. Enjoy your Chicken Parmesan!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve Extra Crispiness

To make your Chicken Parmesan extra crispy, follow these steps:

– Use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and crunchy texture.

– Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs. This boosts flavor and crunch.

– Double-bread the chicken. Coat it twice for a thicker, crispier layer.

– Fry in hot oil. Make sure the oil shimmers before adding chicken.

These tips help you get that perfect crunch with every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some mistakes to watch out for when making Chicken Parmesan:

– Skipping the drying step. Always pat the chicken dry first. This helps the breading stick better.

– Not seasoning enough. A pinch of salt and pepper on the chicken makes a big difference.

– Overcrowding the pan. Fry in batches to keep the oil hot and achieve even cooking.

– Forgetting to let the cheese melt. Bake long enough for a bubbly, golden topping.

Avoiding these pitfalls will lead to a more delicious dish.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Chicken Parmesan

To serve Classic Chicken Parmesan, consider these ideas:

– Pair it with spaghetti. Toss the pasta in olive oil and garlic for a tasty side.

– Add a fresh salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the dish well.

– Garnish with fresh basil. This adds color and a burst of flavor.

– Serve with crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

These serving suggestions enhance the meal and make it even more enjoyable.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh herbs and quality cheese to elevate the flavor of your Chicken Parmesan.
Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunchy coating, fry the chicken twice, allowing it to rest for a few minutes between fryings.
Let It Rest: After baking, let the Chicken Parmesan sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the cheese to set and makes slicing easier.
Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to switch up the marinara sauce with a white sauce or pesto for a unique twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan.

Variations

Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan

To make gluten-free chicken Parmesan, you can swap the flour and panko. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. These options will still give you that crispy texture. When frying, be careful to avoid cross-contamination. You want to keep everything gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy a tasty meal!

Chicken Parmesan with Different Cheeses

You can change up the cheeses in your chicken Parmesan. Try using provolone or gouda for a new flavor. Mixing mozzarella with a bit of feta adds a nice salty touch. Feel free to experiment! Each cheese brings its own taste and texture. You might find a new favorite combo.

Adding Vegetables or Sides to the Dish

Adding vegetables can make your chicken Parmesan even better. You can roast zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach and place them on the side. This not only boosts flavor but also adds color to your plate. A side of spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic complements the dish well. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for extra crunch. These additions make your meal balanced and delicious!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Chicken Parmesan

To store leftover Chicken Parmesan, first let it cool. Place it in an airtight container. Make sure to cover the top tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

When you reheat Chicken Parmesan, aim to keep it crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it lightly with foil to prevent drying. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Check that it’s heated through before serving. This method helps the cheese stay gooey while keeping the coating crispy.

Freezing Chicken Parmesan for Future Meals

Freezing Chicken Parmesan is easy. First, let it cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag or container. Label it with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your meal without the fuss!

FAQs

What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs if you need to. They work well, but they might not be as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a fun crunch. For gluten-free options, try ground almonds or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Each choice gives a unique texture and flavor to your Chicken Parmesan.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. You can bread the chicken and fry it, then store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just add the marinara and cheese, then bake it. This method saves time and keeps the flavors fresh.

What is the best side dish to serve with Chicken Parmesan?

A classic side dish is spaghetti. Toss it in olive oil and garlic for a simple, tasty pairing. You can also serve a fresh salad with greens and a light dressing. Garlic bread is another great option. It adds a nice crunch and flavor to your meal.

You learned how to make Chicken Parmesan from scratch. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for the best results. You now know how to elevate the dish with options like gluten-free breading or adding veggies. Remember to store your leftovers properly and reheat them for tasty meals later. With these tools and techniques, you can create a delicious Chicken Parmesan that impresses everyone. Enjoy your cooking journe

Classic Chicken Parmesan

Discover the ultimate Crispy Chicken Parmesan with this easy chicken dinner recipe! This Classic Chicken Parmesan features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara and gooey cheese, making it a mouthwatering Italian chicken dish the whole family will love. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it's both quick and satisfying. Save this Chicken Parmesan recipe for your next dinner and impress your guests! #ChickenParmesan #EasyDinner #ItalianRecipe #CrispyChicken

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Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for that extra crispiness)

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Olive oil (for frying)

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare your three-step breading station: In a shallow dish, combine the flour with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until they’re smooth and well mixed. For the third dish, whisk together the panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly combined.

Using paper towels, pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly. Season both sides with additional salt and pepper for flavor.

Begin breading the chicken: First, dredge each breast in the seasoned flour, ensuring to coat evenly and shaking off any excess.

Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl.

Finally, coat the chicken with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a thick and even layer adheres to the chicken.

In a large skillet, heat enough olive oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through.

Once fried, transfer the golden chicken breasts to a baking dish. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each piece, making sure to cover them well.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauced chicken, allowing it to cover the tops completely.

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and turns a lovely golden brown.

After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. For a fresh touch, garnish with vibrant basil leaves before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 2

- Presentation Tips: Serve the Chicken Parmesan onto a spacious plate alongside a delightful mound of spaghetti lightly tossed in olive oil and minced garlic. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil for a stunning and appetizing presentation.