Crispy Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

When it comes to classic comfort food, Crispy Chicken Parmesan stands out as a timeless favorite. This dish combines tender chicken cutlets, a golden, crispy crust, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a hit with everyone from kids to dinner party guests.

Imagine slicing into a perfectly breaded chicken cutlet topped with rich marinara and melted mozzarella. Every bite is a mouthwatering mix of crispy, cheesy, and saucy goodness. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s practical and easy to make. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Golden, Crispy Perfection: The combination of panko and Parmesan creates an unbeatable crunch.
• Bursting with Flavor: Herbs, garlic, and marinara sauce make this dish a flavor-packed delight.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple steps and common ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all levels.
• Crowd-Pleasing Classic: It’s perfect for family dinners, romantic meals, or even meal prepping.

Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe.

For the Chicken

For Cooking and Topping

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet to prevent sticking.

2. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together:
   • Eggs
   • Grated garlic
   • Chopped parsley
   • Salt and pepper to taste.
2. Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Place the coated chicken in a shallow dish and let it marinate for 15–45 minutes.

3. Prepare the Breading Mixture

1. In another shallow bowl, combine:
   • Panko breadcrumbs
   • Regular breadcrumbs
   • Grated Parmesan cheese
   • Basil
   • Oregano
   • Garlic powder
   • Salt to taste.
2. Mix well to create a uniform breading.

4. Bread the Chicken

1. Remove each chicken cutlet from the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
2. Dip the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
3. Repeat with all the chicken cutlets and set them aside.

5. Fry the Chicken

1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared baking sheet.

6. Top with Sauce and Cheese

1. Spoon about ¼ cup of marinara sauce onto each chicken cutlet.
2. Sprinkle a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Bake the Chicken

1. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 17–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

8. Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
2. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as pasta, salad, or garlic bread.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Parmesan

1. Use Thin Cutlets

Thin chicken cutlets cook evenly and ensure a crispy coating without overcooking the meat.

2. Marinate for Flavor

Letting the chicken soak in the egg mixture enhances the flavor and helps the breading adhere better.

3. Fry Before Baking

Frying creates a crispy crust, while baking ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese melts perfectly.

4. Use Fresh Ingredients

Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality marinara sauce elevate the flavor of the dish.

5. Customize the Seasonings

Adjust the herbs and spices to your taste. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or more garlic powder for extra flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Creative Variations of Crispy Chicken Parmesan

1. Spicy Chicken Parmesan

Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breading mixture for a spicy twist.

2. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour instead of panko and regular breadcrumbs.

3. Low-Carb Version

Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond meal.

4. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add sauce and cheese, then air-fry for an additional 2–3 minutes.

5. Extra Cheesy

Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and Gruyere cheese for a rich, cheesy topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Bread and fry the chicken in advance, then refrigerate. Add the marinara and cheese just before baking.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the chicken cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

3. What’s the best way to reheat Crispy Chicken Parmesan?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breading soggy.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness.

5. What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with spaghetti, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

6. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?

Definitely! Homemade marinara adds a fresh, flavorful touch to the dish.

A Final Bite: Why You Should Try Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a classic for a reason—it’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying in every way. The crunchy coating, tender chicken, savory marinara, and melted cheese come together to create a dish that feels both indulgent and approachable.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food. With this foolproof recipe, your Crispy Chicken Parmesan will be the star of any meal!

Crispy Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

Print Recipe

Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines tender chicken cutlets, a golden, crunchy crust, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Every bite is a delicious harmony of textures and flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or impressing dinner guests. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

 

• Author: ating
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Frying and Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken:

• 2 large eggs
• 3 cloves garlic, grated
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
• 6 chicken cutlets
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For Cooking and Topping:

• ½ cup avocado oil (or any neutral oil for frying)
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
• Marinate the Chicken:
  • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Place the coated chicken in a shallow dish and let it marinate for 15–45 minutes to enhance flavor and help the breading adhere.
• Prepare the Breading Mixture:
  • In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Mix thoroughly to create a uniform breading.
• Bread the Chicken:
  • Remove each chicken cutlet from the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
  • Dip the cutlet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
  • Repeat with all the chicken cutlets and set them aside.
• Fry the Chicken:
  • Heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Once the oil is hot and shimmering, fry the breaded chicken cutlets for about 5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared baking dish.
• Top with Sauce and Cheese:
  • Spoon about ¼ cup of marinara sauce onto each chicken cutlet.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
• Bake the Chicken:
  • Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 17–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Garnish and Serve:
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
  • Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as pasta, salad, or garlic bread.

Notes

• Thin Cutlets: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking and a crispy crust.
• Fry First, Bake Later: Frying ensures a crunchy crust, while baking melts the cheese and cooks the chicken through.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality marinara sauce enhance the dish’s flavor.