Classic Chicken Parmesan
Crispy breaded chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Served over pasta.
Details
Ingredients
- 2 large Chicken Breasts, halved and pounded thin
- 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 cup Flour
- 2 Eggs, beaten
- 1.5 cups Marinara Sauce
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- 1
Set up a dredging station: flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan.
- 2
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- 3
Fry in oil over medium-high heat until golden brown (3-4 mins per side).
- 4
Place fried chicken in a baking dish. Top with sauce and mozzarella.
- 5
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes until cheese melts.
- 6
Serve over spaghetti.
About This Recipe
A cornerstone of Italian-American comfort food, Classic Chicken Parmesan transforms a simple chicken breast into an indulgent, multi-textured masterpiece. While its roots trace back to southern Italy's eggplant parmigiana, the chicken rendition gained widespread popularity in the United States, particularly among Italian immigrants who adapted traditional recipes with readily available ingredients. What makes this dish truly special is the harmonious interplay of textures and flavors: the satisfying crunch of the golden-fried, breaded chicken, the succulent tenderness of the thinly pounded meat, the rich and tangy embrace of marinara sauce, and finally, the gooey, molten blanket of mozzarella cheese. Key to its success are techniques like pounding the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking, setting up an efficient breading station (flour, egg, seasoned breadcrumbs with Parmesan) for optimal coating, and shallow-frying to achieve that coveted crispy crust before finishing it in the oven or under a broiler to perfectly melt the cheese and meld all the flavors. Variations often include using provolone alongside mozzarella for a sharper bite, or incorporating fresh herbs like basil and oregano into the breading or sauce. Traditionally served over a bed of spaghetti or linguine, it's a hearty meal that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Tips & Tricks
- • To ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness, pound your chicken breasts to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness. Place chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or heavy rolling pin.
- • For an extra-crispy crust, swap regular breadcrumbs for panko breadcrumbs, or combine them with a touch of cornmeal. You can also mix in dried herbs like oregano or a pinch of garlic powder to the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- • Chicken Parmesan can be assembled ahead of time: bread the chicken, fry it, top with sauce and cheese, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and cheese is bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- • Pair this rich dish with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A glass of medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Barbera, also complements the tomato and cheese beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (approximate)