I recently tried making Easy Chicken Parmesan at home, and honestly, I can’t believe how much better it turned out than what you’d get at a restaurant. The crispy breaded chicken paired with melted cheese and just the right amount of tangy tomato sauce was a total game-changer.
Plus, the process of preparing this dish was so satisfying—I felt like a true chef in my kitchen. If you’re someone who appreciates a meal that’s both comforting and fancy, I promise this Easy Chicken Parmesan recipe is a winner. Now, let’s get into the details so you can try it, too!
Credit: tastesbetterfromscratch
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make a delicious and perfectly crispy Chicken Parmesan. Each ingredient matters, so follow these suggestions to make it extra tasty.
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (pounded evenly to 1/2 inch for quick and uniform cooking)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (enhance flavor from the start by seasoning generously)
- 2 large eggs (beaten to help the breading stick perfectly)
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (extra crispy option compared to regular bread crumbs)
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided (adds a nutty, sharp flavor; fresh is best)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (light dusting ensures the breading adheres well)
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying; gives a beautiful golden crust)
- 1/2 cup prepared tomato sauce (choose high-quality for the best results)
- 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes (melts beautifully for a gooey texture)
- 1/4 cup grated provolone cheese (adds tangy, cheesy depth)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (brightens the overall flavor)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil (for drizzling before baking)
Note: This recipe serves four, so adjust ingredient amounts for larger or smaller portions depending on your crowd.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are some great alternatives to suit different dietary needs or flavor adventures:
- Dairy-Free: Swap the mozzarella and provolone for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well.
- Low-Carb: Replace panko crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly option.
- Extra Flavor: Add Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture or use sun-dried tomato pesto in place of basic tomato sauce for a unique twist.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour.
You might also love exploring bold Mexican flavors with this Chicken Birria Tacos Recipe.
Cooking Time
This recipe is designed for efficient cooking while still achieving a restaurant-quality result.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
These kitchen essentials will help you nail the dish with ease:
- Meat mallet: To pound chicken breasts evenly.
- Mixing bowls: For seasoning and breading the chicken.
- Large skillet: Perfect for frying chicken to golden perfection.
- Baking dish: For assembling and baking the final dish.
- Tongs: Convenient for flipping the chicken while frying.
How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan?
Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic or in resealable bags. Using a meat mallet, gently pound each piece until it’s an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season the flattened chicken generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step guarantees evenly cooked and flavorful chicken every time.
Set Up the Breading Station
Get two bowls ready. Beat the eggs in one bowl until smooth. Mix panko breadcrumbs and half of the grated Parmesan cheese in another. Lightly coat each chicken breast with all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, pressing well to coat. Let the breaded chicken rest for about 10 minutes to help the coating stick better during frying.
Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully place the chicken breasts into the hot oil and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish, and you’ll finish cooking it in the oven.
Assemble for Baking
Top each fried chicken breast with two tablespoons of tomato sauce, spreading it gently. Add fresh mozzarella cubes, grated provolone, and a touch more Parmesan. Sprinkle some chopped basil and drizzle each piece with a bit of olive oil. The combination of cheeses creates a melty, flavorful topping.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the assembled dish inside and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly, slightly browned, and the chicken is cooked through. For added assurance, use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Credit: kalejunkie
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
From my kitchen to yours, here are some tips I swear by:
- Don’t rush the resting time after breading; it’s key to keeping the crispy coating intact.
- Go easy on the sauce to avoid soggy chicken. Serve extra sauce on the side for anyone who wants more.
- Invest in fresh Parmesan rather than pre-grated for the best taste and texture.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.
- Keep your pan at the right temp when frying; not too hot or cold, for even browning.
If you’re a fan of bold Asian flavors, you can also enjoy a spicy twist with this Kung Pao Chicken Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Parmesan
This dish already looks gorgeous when it comes out of the oven, but you can elevate its presentation even further. Place the chicken on a serving platter lined with basil leaves for a pop of green. Pair it with buttery spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad. A light garnish of extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper gives a polished finish.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Easy Chicken Parmesan offers the following nutritional values:
- Calories: 471
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 25g
Enjoy this satisfying balance of nutrients with every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Bread and lightly fry the chicken in advance, then store in the fridge. Add toppings and bake when ready to serve.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: Freeze fully cooked chicken without the sauce for up to three months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain its crispness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Chicken Parmesan is bound to become your go-to favorite:
- Super easy to make with simple ingredients most kitchens already have.
- Customizable for dietary preferences like gluten-free or dairy-free.
- Restaurant-quality taste without the price tag or effort of dining out.
- Perfectly crispy and juicy thanks to frying before baking.
- Crowd-pleasing option for family dinners or entertaining guests.
With this tried-and-true Easy Chicken Parmesan recipe, you’ll feel like a chef in your own kitchen while leaving everyone at the table impressed and satisfied. Happy cooking! For more flavorful ideas, check out these fantastic Chicken Recipes.