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Best Chicken Parmesan recipe

Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe – Easy & Crispy Dinner


Description

Welcome to the ultimate Chicken Parmesan recipe, where crispy breaded chicken meets rich marinara sauce and melted cheese! If you’re craving a restaurant-quality Italian dinner, this guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions to achieve the best homemade Chicken Parmesan. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Cutlets:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (for extra color and flavor)
  • ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • ½ teaspoon sugar (balances acidity)
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Butterfly and pound the chicken – Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally. Pound them lightly with a meat mallet to even thickness (about ½ inch).
  2. Season the chicken – Sprinkle both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step2: Set Up the Breading Station

  1. Flour coating: Place the flour in a shallow dish.
  2. Egg wash: Beat eggs in another dish.
  3. Breadcrumb mixture: In a third dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.

Step3: Bread the Chicken

  1. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step4: Fry the Chicken

  1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Fry chicken 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step5: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir in fresh basil and remove from heat.

Step6: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
  3. Place fried chicken cutlets on top.
  4. Spoon additional marinara sauce over the chicken.
  5. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step7: Serve & Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use Panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy coating.
  • Don’t skip pounding the chicken – this ensures even cooking.
  • Double breading (flour → egg → breadcrumbs twice) creates a thicker crust.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a richer, more decadent cheese topping.