The Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe - Easy to Make

Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parm, or Chicken Parmigiana. Whatever you call it, it’s a classic for a reason. Crispy, breaded chicken smothered in tangy tomato sauce and a blanket of melted cheese. Seriously, what’s not to love? My family has loved this super easy chicken Parmesan recipe for years, and it’s quick enough even for a weeknight. And more importantly, it’s enough bliss to satisfy everyone’s palate. So, forget about ordering takeout, and let’s get on how to make chicken Parmesan at home!

Ingredients:

• 4 skinless chicken breasts, about 1.2 lbs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, whisked
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 3 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup jarred or homemade tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh oregano
• 1/2 bunch fresh Basil

Equipment:

• Meat mallet
• Meat thermometer
• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• 3 shallow dishes
• Resealable freezer bags or plastic wrap
• Tongs

What Cheese Should I Use in Chicken Parmesan?

Parmesan cheese is essential for this dish, as its name implies, bringing a savory, spicy, slightly nutty taste. Our recipe also mixes some shredded mozzarella, which adds a creamy, smooth and milder flavor that perfectly complements the Parmesan without dominating it.

Pan-Frying or Baking Chicken Parm?

Chicken Parmesan is usually pan-fried for that crispy, golden-brown crust. But if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, baking it can still delivers delicious results. I like both methods, and here are differences between them:

Pan-Frying: This method requires quite a bit of oil to achieve that perfect crispy texture, but it doesn’t cook the chicken all the way through, you’ll need to put it into oven to finish it off.

Baking: This is a healthier option since it uses less oil, which works in two stages: the first part creates a golden-brown crust, and the second part melts the toppings. If you want a healthier yet still tender and juicy option, check out my sous vide chicken breast recipe.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan?

Step 1: Pound the chicken to even thickness. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts in resealable freezer bags or between two sheets of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to a 1/2-inch thickness, which help tenderize it and cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the chicken. Lightly season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Set up dredging lines. Prepare three shallow dishes. In the first one, pour in some flour. In the second, combine whisked eggs with milk. Finally, in the third dish, mix together bread crumbs, half of the shredded Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of black pepper.

Step 4: Bread the chicken. Coat each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.  Then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Let the breaded chicken sit for about 20 minutes to ensure the coating adheres well.

Step 5: Fry the cutlets. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it starts to shimmer, add the cutlets and fry them for 3 minutes per side, or until the breadcrumbs get golden and crispy. Don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking in the oven. If baking, place breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the chicken Parmesan. Arrange the fried cutlets on a baking sheet, spoon a thin layer of tomato sauce on each one, and then top with mozzarella cheese, the remaining Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. If you are using a Bluetooth meat thermometer, insert it into one of the cutlets and set the temperature to 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Bake chicken Parmesan. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until your thermometer indicated it’s done. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh basil.

How to Prevent Chicken Parmesan from Getting Soggy?

Some recipes suggest adding a layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking sheet, but mine doesn’t! If you soak the chicken in too much sauce and cheese, it will undoubtedly get soggy, so just drizzle on enough sauce to cover the cutlets.

I recommend using panko breadcrumbs since they’re coarser and less absorbent than regular ones. Also, leave the baking sheet uncovered to keep the chicken crispy.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan is typically served with pasta like spaghetti or penne. For classic Italian vibe, consider adding a fresh arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette or some garlic bread. You can also get creative by rolling thin slices into rollatini or using cutlets to create a delicious sandwich. For a healthier twist, pairing it with roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can add color and balance to the meal.