Description
This Chicken Parmesan recipe is the perfect combination of crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. A staple of Italian-American cuisine, this dish is a comforting and flavorful meal that is easy to make yet impressive enough for special occasions. Serve it over pasta, with a side salad, or alongside garlic bread for a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large, sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 cutlets)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon)
- All-purpose flour (½ cup)
- Eggs (2, beaten)
- Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs (1 cup)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup)
- Olive oil (¼ cup, for frying)
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons)
- Marinara sauce (1 ½ cups)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Season the chicken cutlets with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip it into the egg, and coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Place the fried chicken cutlets in the prepared baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot with pasta or a side of your choice.
Notes
- For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes instead of frying.
- Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamier texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.
- Pair with spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying & Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American