Chicken Parmesan

Crispy, cheesy, and comforting this Chicken Parmesan (also known as Chicken Parmigiana) is a timeless Italian-American favorite. Juicy breaded chicken is topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and parmesan cheese for a meal that’s both hearty and elegant. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weekend treat!

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Ingredients

• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half horizontally to make 6 thin pieces)
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or more panko)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken
   Butterfly the chicken breasts: Place one hand on top of a chicken breast and carefully slice horizontally through the middle to create two thin, even fillets.
   Pat dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare the Coating
   In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
   In another, mix together the breadcrumbs, half of the parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
4. Bread the Chicken
   Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off.
   Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Pan-Fry the Chicken
   Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown (the chicken will finish cooking in the oven).
6. Assemble the Dish
   Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   Arrange the browned chicken pieces on top. Spoon a bit of marinara over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella and the remaining parmesan cheese.
7. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
8. Serve
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot over spaghetti or your favorite pasta, with extra marinara sauce if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy breading with a melty, cheesy topping.
• Simple ingredients and easy steps — perfect for weeknights.
• Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing comfort food.
• Bakes quickly with restaurant-quality flavor.
• Pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or bread.

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Tips

• Use thin chicken cutlets: Ensures quick, even cooking.
• Double coating: For extra crunch, dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
• Don’t overload the pan: Fry in batches to keep the coating crisp.
• Rest before baking: Let fried chicken rest for a few minutes to prevent sogginess.
• Homemade sauce: A fresh tomato marinara enhances flavor — but store-bought works great too.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Healthier version: Skip frying and bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 15–18 minutes before topping with sauce and cheese.
• Different cheeses: Try provolone, fontina, or even a mozzarella-parmesan mix.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
• Low-carb: Substitute crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs.

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FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well — just adjust the cooking time as they’re usually smaller.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm to keep the coating crisp.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes — freeze baked portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve over spaghetti, fettuccine, or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
• Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
• Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for balance.
• Drizzle with extra marinara or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
• For an elegant touch, top with a few fresh basil leaves and a shaving of parmesan cheese.