Description
This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe features breaded and pan-fried chicken breasts smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, finished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, it’s an Italian-American favorite perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Breading
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally to make 6 breast halves
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup Italian style bread crumbs (or panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil recommended)
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create six thinner halves. This helps them cook evenly and quickly.
- Make the Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, Italian style bread crumbs, garlic powder, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well blended.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast half into the eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Pan Fry the Chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the fried chicken pieces on top, then spoon remaining marinara sauce over each piece.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm with your choice of pasta or a side salad.
Notes
- Cutting the chicken breasts in half horizontally ensures faster and more uniform cooking.
- Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite homemade tomato sauce.
- Use fresh mozzarella for an even creamier texture if preferred.
- If avoiding frying, you can bake the breaded chicken for a healthier version, but it may be less crispy.
Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parmigiana, Breaded chicken, Italian comfort food, Fried chicken, Melty cheese chicken