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Crispy Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

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.  
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Method
 

Preheat the Oven:
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Lightly grease a baking dish or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Marinate the Chicken:
  1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, grated garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  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 to enhance flavor and help the breading adhere.
Prepare the Breading Mixture:
  1. In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt.
  2. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform breading.
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.
Fry the Chicken:
  1. Heat the 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 and crispy.
  3. Transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese:
  1. Spoon about ¼ cup of marinara sauce onto each chicken cutlet.
  2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
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 reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Garnish and Serve:
  1. Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
  2. 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.