Description
A quick and easy Chicken Parmesan recipe featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts smothered in savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting Italian classic is perfect for family dinners and weeknight meals, delivering crispy texture and rich flavors with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Breading
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-seasoned)
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Additional Parmesan cheese for topping, about 2 tbsp
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure consistent cooking and tenderness.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Beat the eggs in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then thoroughly press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Fry Until Golden: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, forming a crispy crust.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then top generously with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake to Melt: Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned for added flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature chicken for even cooking and better texture.
- Do not overcrowd the pan while frying; cook in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature and crispiness.
- Drain fried chicken on a wire rack to avoid sogginess by allowing excess oil to drip off.
- Use fresh mozzarella cheese for better melting and creaminess compared to pre-shredded versions.
- Allow the cheese to brown slightly in the oven for enhanced flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Easy Chicken Parm, Italian Chicken Recipe, Weeknight Dinner, Crispy Chicken, Cheesy Chicken Parmesan
