Are you craving a classic dinner that never disappoints? This Chicken Parmesan recipe is one of those dishes that brings comfort and joy to every meal. From the crispy breaded chicken to the melty cheese topping, this recipe will have your family asking for seconds and thirds!
I’m sharing Chicken Parmesan Obsessed My Family Begs for This Recipe Every Week because it strikes the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness. It’s a timeless favorite with a rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella that makes dinners feel extra special.
Why I Can’t Stop Making These Cookies
- Crispy golden crust with tender, juicy chicken inside every bite is pure satisfaction.
- Flavor-packed with garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of parmesan in the breadcrumb coating.
- Pantry-friendly ingredients that you likely already have on hand, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
- Kid-friendly and approachable, even picky eaters love the familiar flavors.
- Feels hearty and seasonal, especially comforting during cooler months but just as great any time of year.
What Type of Chicken Should I Use?
For the best Chicken Parmesan, boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal. Choose fresh chicken for the most tender results, but if you use frozen, thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the breading stick and prevent sogginess. Avoid using dried or pre-cooked chicken, as it won’t give you that juicy, tender texture.
If your chicken breasts are thick, consider butterflying or pounding them evenly to about ½ inch thick (1.3 cm) so they cook quickly and evenly without drying out.
Options for Ingredient Alternatives
- Swap olive oil for melted butter in the breadcrumb mixture for a richer flavor.
- Use Pecorino Romano cheese instead of parmesan for a sharper, saltier bite.
- For mozzarella, fresh mozzarella balls or low-moisture shredded mozzarella both work well.
- Substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or soy milk if you prefer your sauce dairy-free.
- Add fresh basil or dried Italian herbs to the tomato sauce for an herbal twist.
- If using coconut oil in the breadcrumb coating, chill it first to avoid greasiness.
The Biggest Challenges While Baking
- Avoid over-breading: press the breadcrumbs gently but firmly. Too thick a layer can burn or become gummy.
- Make sure the chicken is completely dry before coating to ensure crispiness.
- Don’t crowd the pan when frying; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
- Maintain medium heat when frying to prevent the outside from burning before the chicken cooks through.
- Let the Chicken Parmesan rest 5 minutes after baking so the cheese sets and slices neatly.
Storage & Freezing Instructions
Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crispy.
For freezing, layer pieces between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven. You can also freeze the breaded raw chicken on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag, then bake directly from frozen just add extra cook time.
Estimated Nutrition
Approximate nutrition per whole recipe (serves 4):
- Calories: 1,200
- Protein: 120g
- Fat: 50g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
Per serving:
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 12.5g
- Carbohydrates: 17.5g
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs or 700 g)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100 g)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (50 g)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup olive oil or vegetable oil (120 ml), for frying
- 2 cups marinara sauce (480 ml)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (150 g)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch (1.3 cm) thickness.
Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow bowl; beat eggs in a second bowl; mix panko, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so breadcrumbs stick well.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken pieces 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Work in batches as needed.
Transfer fried chicken to the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips, Variations & Serving Ideas
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version.
- Top with sliced prosciutto before baking for extra indulgence.
- Serve over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a bed of sautéed spinach.
- Save leftovers for sandwiches or wraps with fresh greens.
- Underbake slightly for a gooier cheese topping.
- Fresh herbs like oregano or parsley add bright flavor when sprinkled before serving.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake the chicken without frying?
A: Yes, baking is a healthier option but the crust won’t be as crispy. Coat chicken in breadcrumbs and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Boneless skinless thighs work too but may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for safe and juicy chicken.
Save This for Later (Pinterest)
If you love this mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan recipe as much as my family does, be sure to save it on Pinterest for your next cozy dinner night. Sharing is caring tag someone who needs this recipe in their life!
Leave a Reply