Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe (with Video)

Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort food that combines crispy, golden chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the kind of dish that impresses guests yet is easy enough for a weekday dinner. With this step-by-step guide, even beginners can whip up a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of their own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Chicken Parmesan, gather the following:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour.
• 2 large eggs (beaten).
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko or Italian-seasoned).
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish).
• Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick).
• Garlic powder or Italian seasoning for added flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Make sure you have these tools ready:

• Cutting board and chef’s knife.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin.
• Shallow bowls for breading.
• Large skillet.
• Baking dish (9×13 inches).
• Tongs or a spatula.
• Aluminum foil (optional for covering during baking).

No meat mallet? Use a sturdy rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy skillet to pound the chicken.

Preparation: Setting Up the Workspace

A little prep work goes a long way in making the process seamless:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease the dish with olive oil or a non-stick spray.
3. Organize Ingredients: Arrange flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls for easy access.
4. Clean Up Your Tools: Ensure everything is clean and within reach to save time.

Preparing the Chicken

Properly prepared chicken is the foundation of a great Chicken Parmesan.

1. Selecting Chicken: Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results.
2. Pound to Uniform Thickness: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound until it’s about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
3. Season Generously: Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and any other preferred spices (garlic powder works great here).

Bread Coating Process

Creating the perfect crispy coating is all about technique:

Set Up Your Breading Stations:

• Bowl 1: Flour.
• Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
• Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.

Coating the Chicken:

• Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
• Dip into beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
• Press into breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.

Cooking the Chicken

Now it’s time to fry the breaded chicken to crispy perfection.

Frying Method:

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook each chicken breast for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet as it will finish baking in the oven.

Alternative Methods:

• Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F, place breaded chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes until crispy.
• Air Frying: Air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Making the Tomato Sauce

A rich tomato sauce is what makes Chicken Parmesan so flavorful. While store-bought marinara is convenient, a homemade sauce adds a personal touch.

Homemade Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced.
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes.
• 1 teaspoon sugar.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional).
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish).

Quick Sauce Preparation:

• Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
• Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
• Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Season with salt and pepper, and stir in fresh basil leaves for an added layer of flavor.

Shortcut Tip: If using store-bought sauce, enhance it with garlic, a pinch of sugar, or fresh basil to make it taste homemade.

Assembling the Chicken Parmesan

Now that the components are ready, it’s time to layer everything together.

Layering Process:

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Place the fried or baked chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
• Spoon additional marinara sauce over each chicken piece, ensuring they are generously coated.

Cheese Galore:

• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the sauced chicken.
• Add a light layer of Parmesan for extra flavor.

Pro Tip: For a cheesy, golden crust, use a combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses.

Baking the Dish

With everything assembled, it’s time to bake your Chicken Parmesan to perfection.

1. Bake in Preheated Oven: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
2. Optional Step: For an extra-crispy cheese topping, turn on the broiler for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Parmesan with side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

Classic Pairings:

• Spaghetti or linguine tossed in olive oil or extra marinara sauce.
• A fresh Caesar or garden salad with a light vinaigrette.

Additional Options:

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli or asparagus.

Plating Tip: Garnish with chopped fresh basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a professional finish.

Tips for Customization

Want to make the dish your own? Here are some creative variations:

Dietary Adjustments:

• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance.

Adding Flavors:

• Mix herbs like thyme or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture.
• Add a layer of thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini under the chicken for a veggie twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To achieve the best results, steer clear of these common pitfalls:

Soggy Breading:

• Ensure the chicken is patted dry before breading.
• Avoid overcrowding the skillet during frying.

Dry Chicken:

• Don’t overcook the chicken during the frying stage. It will finish cooking in the oven.
• Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Bland Sauce:

• Always taste and adjust your tomato sauce with salt, sugar, or spices as needed.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Chicken Parmesan stores beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Storing Leftovers:

• Let the dish cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips:

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power to prevent the cheese from overcooking.

Freezing Option: Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs about Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

What ingredients do I need for an easy Chicken Parmesan recipe?

To make Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, eggs, all-purpose flour, marinara sauce, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

How do I prepare the chicken for Chicken Parmesan?

Begin by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Then, dredge each piece first in flour seasoned with salt and pepper, dip it into beaten eggs, and finally coat it with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Can I make Chicken Parmesan in an air fryer?

Yes, Chicken Parmesan can be cooked in an air fryer. Prepare the chicken as usual and cook it in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add sauce and cheese in the last few minutes of cooking.

What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan pairs well with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. It also goes well with steamed vegetables or a side of roasted potatoes.

How can I store and reheat leftover Chicken Parmesan?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the chicken is hot and the cheese is bubbly, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the breading crisp.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is a foolproof way to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. The crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese come together in perfect harmony, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe guarantees success. Try it today and treat yourself to a little Italian-inspired magic.