Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!)

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together juicy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. This easy recipe is not only straightforward but also delivers on flavor, making it a staple in my kitchen. Let’s dive into why this Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) deserves a spot in your rotation.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) is all about simplicity without sacrificing taste. With a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a dish that feels special and indulgent. The combination of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and gooey cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of lasagna or a fresh garden salad.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup panko bread crumbs
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
1 cup vegetable oil or avocado oil
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
8 ounces spaghetti, cooked, for serving
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Tools of the Trade

Large skillet: For frying the chicken and simmering the sauce.
Meat mallet: To pound the chicken into an even thickness.
Mixing bowls: For breading the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Spatula: To flip the chicken and serve.
Oven-safe dish: For baking the Chicken Parmesan if desired.

Build Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and granulated sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the sauce is simmering, take the boneless skinless chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off the excess, then in the egg, and finally in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Parmesan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken on top of the sauce, then spoon more sauce over each piece. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken, followed by a sprinkle of minced fresh parsley.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7: Serve

While the Chicken Parmesan is baking, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Serve the Chicken Parmesan over a bed of spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) with family and friends!

Substitutions by Diet

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs instead of all-purpose flour and panko.
Dairy-free: Substitute dairy-free cheese for the mozzarella and Parmesan.
Low-carb: Replace the breading with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Paleo: Use almond flour for breading and omit the sugar in the sauce.

Cook’s Commentary

This Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) is versatile and can be customized to your taste. Want a bit of spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. Feel free to swap the chicken for eggplant for a delicious vegetarian option. Also, don’t forget that the quality of ingredients matters; using fresh herbs and good-quality cheese can elevate this dish to a whole new level.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, trust me!), let them cool completely before storing. Place the Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. The breading may lose some crispiness, but it will still be delicious!

Common Qs About Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!)

Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and prepare the marinara sauce in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthier option.

Is Chicken Parmesan healthy?

While Chicken Parmesan is indulgent, you can make it healthier by using less cheese, baking instead of frying, or opting for whole-grain breadcrumbs.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture to the dish. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!), don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends! Let them experience the joy of making a delicious Chicken Parmesan at home. Happy cooking!