Here’s a classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe, featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s an Italian-American favorite that’s comforting and easy to make!
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/3 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
For the toppings:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes:
- Dish 1: Flour
- Dish 2: Whisked eggs with 1 tbsp water
- Dish 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Fry the chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the dish:
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the fried chicken cutlets in the dish, then top each piece with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
- Serve hot with spaghetti, a side salad, or garlic bread.
Tips for Success:
- Pound the chicken breasts evenly for quicker, uniform cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor and texture.
- For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken cutlets instead of frying before assembling.
This Chicken Parmesan recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Buon appetito!