What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love, perfect for both busy weeknights and special dinners. It’s crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and smothered in gooey cheese and marinara sauce. You’ll save money by skipping the takeout and enjoying a restaurant-quality meal at home. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can pair it with pasta, salad, or veggies for a complete feast.
Recipe
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines breaded chicken cutlets with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Set up a breading station: place flour in a shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat with enough oil to lightly coat the bottom. Cook the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the chicken breasts on top.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, mix shredded mozzarella with provolone cheese.
- Confirm the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Equipment:
- Meat mallet
- Shallow dishes (3)
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian-American
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
This Chicken Parmesan recipe provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins. Below is the detailed nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chicken parmesan with garlic bread that’s crispy on the outside and soft inside—it’s perfect for soaking up the sauce. A fresh side salad with tangy dressing adds a nice crunch and balances the meal. These sides make dinner feel complete without overpowering the main dish.
Garlic Bread Options
When pairing garlic bread with Chicken Parmesan, you’ll want something that complements its rich, cheesy flavors without stealing the spotlight. I prefer making garlic bread with a crisp crust and a soft, buttery center—it’s simple but satisfying. You can use a baguette or Italian loaf, slice it, then spread a mix of butter, garlic, and parsley before toasting it until golden. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor, but don’t overdo it; Chicken Parmesan is already loaded with cheese. This garlic bread soaks up the sauce beautifully without overwhelming the dish, creating a perfect balance.
Perfect Side Salads
For a light and energizing contrast to the hearty Chicken Parmesan, a side salad can’t be beat. I love tossing together crisp romaine or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of Parmesan shavings. A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey ties it all together. Sometimes, I add roasted red peppers or a handful of olives for extra flavor. It’s revitalizing, easy to make, and balances the richness of the main dish. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, leaving you more room to enjoy the meal without fuss.
