Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe (with Video)

Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this step-by-step guide will help you create the best Chicken Parmesan ever.

Ingredients Needed

To make the best Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need a few key ingredients.

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped

For Baking and Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, for garnish

Tools and Equipment

Essential Tools:

• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Meat mallet (or rolling pin) for pounding chicken
• Shallow bowls for breading
• Large skillet for frying
• Baking dish
• Tongs and spatula

Optional Tools for Ease:

• Food thermometer (to ensure chicken is cooked properly)
• Wire rack (to keep chicken crispy before baking)

How to Make Best Chicken Parmesan – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Choosing the Right Cut

For the best Chicken Parmesan, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They should be thick enough to pound evenly for cooking consistency.

Pounding and Seasoning

1. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
2. Using a meat mallet, pound them to about ½-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.
3. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

This step helps the chicken cook faster while remaining juicy and flavorful.

Step 2: Breading the Chicken

Flour Coating

• In a shallow bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
• Lightly dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess.

Egg Wash

• Beat two eggs in a separate shallow dish.
• Dip each floured chicken breast into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Breadcrumb Mixture

• In another shallow bowl, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil.
• Coat the chicken evenly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

Choosing the Right Oil

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable or canola oil.

How to Fry Perfectly

1. Heat about ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil reaches 350°F (175°C), add the chicken breasts.
3. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove and drain on a paper towel or a wire rack.

This step locks in the crispiness, setting the foundation for an amazing Chicken Parmesan.

Step 4: Preparing the Sauce

Making the Rich Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, sugar, red pepper flakes, oregano, and fresh basil.
4. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

A homemade sauce makes all the difference in flavor!

Step 5: Assembling the Chicken Parmesan

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce.
3. Place the crispy chicken cutlets over the sauce.
4. Spoon more sauce over each piece, then top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

Step 6: Baking to Perfection

1. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine.
• Pair with garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad.
• Enjoy with roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

• Keep the chicken crispy: Place fried chicken on a wire rack before assembling.
• Use quality cheese: A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan enhances flavor.
• Don’t overload with sauce: Too much sauce can make the breading soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using cold chicken (bring it to room temp before frying).
• Not pounding the chicken thin enough.
• Overcooking, making the chicken dry.

FAQs about the Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe

1. What is Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish. It consists of breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, typically mozzarella and Parmesan. It’s served hot, often over spaghetti or another pasta.

2. What type of chicken is best for Chicken Parmesan?

For the best Chicken Parmesan, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These pieces are lean, cook evenly, and provide a perfect base for the breading and toppings. Make sure to pound them to an even thickness to ensure consistent cooking.

3. Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Parmesan in advance. Bread and fry the chicken, then cool and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, top with sauce and cheese, and bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

4. What sides pair well with Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti, as the marinara sauce can be used for both the chicken and the pasta. Additionally, a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus complement the dish well.

5. How do I keep the breading from falling off the chicken?

To keep the breading intact, first, dredge the chicken in flour, then dip it into beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Let the breaded chicken sit for about 10 minutes before frying. This helps the breading adhere better and prevents it from slipping off during cooking.

6. Is there a gluten-free version of Chicken Parmesan?

Absolutely! For a gluten-free Chicken Parmesan, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. Many stores offer gluten-free breadcrumbs, or you can make your own from gluten-free bread. Ensure all other ingredients, like the marinara sauce, are gluten-free as well.

7. What cheese can I use if I don’t have mozzarella?

If you don’t have mozzarella, other good melting cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar can be used as substitutes. These cheeses still provide a creamy, gooey texture that complements the crisp chicken and tangy sauce.

Conclusion

Now that you have the best step-by-step Chicken Parmesan recipe, it’s time to try it yourself! Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful bite of homemade Chicken Parmesan!