Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe (Crispy and Cheesy!)

“Crispy, golden chicken cutlets topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella — this classic Chicken Parmesan is a comforting Italian favorite that’s easy to make at home. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!”

Chicken Parmesan

There’s something magical about Chicken Parmesan — golden, crispy chicken cutlets layered with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of Italian comfort food that instantly brings warmth to your home and joy to your table.

In my family, Chicken Parmesan has always been a go-to for both cozy weeknights and special dinners. I remember my mom standing by the stove, humming to Italian tunes while the kitchen filled with the aroma of fried breadcrumbs and simmering tomato sauce. Whether it’s a comforting Sunday dinner or a romantic date night, this easy chicken parm recipe will never let you down.

Recipe Card

Servings: 4 Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally to make 4 cutlets)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon water

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup marinara sauce (plus extra for serving)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

For Serving (Optional):

• Cooked spaghetti or linguine

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to ½-inch thickness. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Set Up the Coating Station: Arrange three shallow bowls:

   • Flour

   • Beaten eggs mixed with water

   • Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and garlic powder. Dredge chicken in flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and coat it with breadcrumbs. Press gently to help the coating stick.

3. Fry the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate.

4. Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spread a little marinara in a baking dish. Add the chicken, spoon marinara over each piece, and top with mozzarella. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve with pasta, salad, or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

• Combine panko breadcrumbs with Italian breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.

• Use fresh mozzarella for a richer, authentic flavor.

• Don’t skip the butter when frying — it gives the chicken a golden color and extra flavor.

• For maximum crispiness, let fried chicken rest on a wire rack before baking.

• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinara for a little heat!

Final Thoughts

This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe is everything you love about home cooking — crispy, cheesy, and full of Italian flair. It’s hearty enough for Sunday dinner but easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Serve it with spaghetti, a side salad, or garlic bread, and you’ve got a dish that will make everyone ask for seconds.

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