Crispy Chicken Parmesan: An Italian Classic Made Easy
Ultimate Chicken Parmesan Recipe
chicken parmesan is a timeless Italian-inspired dish that brings together crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Chef John’s method of pan-frying and baking ensures a perfect crunchy crust every time.
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Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare a breading station: place flour in one bowl; beaten eggs in a second; mix breadcrumbs with ¼ cup Parmesan in a third. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top evenly with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 471 kcal
- Protein: 42 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 25 g (Saturated Fat: 9 g)
- Cholesterol: 187 mg
- Sodium: 840 mg
- Sugar: 2 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Chef John’s Tips & Variations
- Extra crisp crust: After breading, let chicken rest 10 minutes before frying.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for a kick.
- Gluten-free: Swap in almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
With this simple technique, you’ll master the art of crunchy, cheesy Italian comfort food. Enjoy your homemade chicken parmesan!
Chicken Parmesan
For the best chicken Parmesan, try Chef John's version that's pan-fried and then baked, delivering impressive results with a crispier crust than most recipes.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare a breading station: place flour in one bowl; beaten eggs in a second; mix breadcrumbs with ¼ cup Parmesan in a third. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry chicken until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top evenly with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 471kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 42gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 187mgSodium: 840mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Recipe adapted from https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/223042/chicken-parmesan/
