Easy Homemade Chicken Parmesan

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Calories per Serving: ~550 kcal

Description

Chicken Parmesan (or Chicken Parmigiana) is a classic Italian-American dish featuring crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Served over pasta or with a side of garlic bread, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

For Serving (Optional):

• Cooked spaghetti or fettuccine

• Garlic bread

• Side salad

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness (about ½ inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.

2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

1. Set Up Breading Stations:

   • First Bowl: Flour (mixed with garlic powder and oregano).

   • Second Bowl: Beaten eggs.

   • Third Bowl: Breadcrumbs mixed with ½ cup Parmesan cheese.

2. Dredge Each Chicken Breast:

   • Coat in flour (shake off excess).

   • Dip in beaten eggs.

   • Press into breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat (oil should shimmer but not smoke).

2. Fry Chicken: Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.

3. Drain: Transfer fried chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble & Bake

1. Preheat Oven: 375°F (190°C).

2. Layer in Baking Dish:

   • Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in a baking dish.

   • Place fried chicken on top.

   • Spoon remaining sauce over each piece.

   • Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

3. Bake: 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh basil (optional).

• Serve over pasta or with garlic bread.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

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Tips & Variations

✅ Healthier Option: Bake instead of fry (425°F for 20-25 mins).
✅ Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
✅ Extra Crispy: Double-coat the chicken (egg → breadcrumbs → egg → breadcrumbs).
✅ Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breading.

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Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress!