Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring breaded, crispy chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This easy recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with pasta or a simple salad. It’s flavorful, crispy, and deliciously cheesy.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Top each chicken breast with marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Serve with pasta or a side salad.
Tips
For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs. Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking. You can also add a bit of garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
FAQs
- Can I make chicken Parmesan ahead of time? Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook. Bake as directed when ready.
- What can I serve with chicken Parmesan? Serve it with pasta, a green salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
- Can I use marinara sauce from a jar? Yes, store-bought marinara works great in this recipe, but homemade adds a personal touch.
Conclusion
This classic chicken Parmesan recipe is a comforting dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, served with pasta or a fresh salad. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of homemade Chicken Parmesan!
