Name: Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 large Chicken breasts; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 2 Eggs; ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs; ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs; 1 cup Parmesan cheese; ¼ cup Olive oil; 1 tbsp Minced garlic; 2 tbsp Fresh basil leaves; 8 oz mozzarella cheese; to serve Spaghetti; 26 oz Marinara sauce

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There’s something about Crispy Chicken Parmesan that just feels like home. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma wafting through the kitchen brought everyone to the table in a flash. The crispy coating, the gooey melted cheese, and the rich marinara sauce made it a meal worth savoring. It was a Sunday family dinner, and I couldn’t help but feel that this dish would become a cherished tradition in our home. Every bite was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest meals create the most beautiful memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
650 kcal

Protein:
45 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
30 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Grater, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven, Frying Pan

The Appeal of This Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Comfort Food at Its Best

There’s a reason Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a beloved classic. It combines crispy chicken with rich cheese, providing a satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. The contrast of textures—the crunchy exterior and tender chicken—creates an unforgettable dining experience.

Ease of Preparation

Making Crispy Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious but also straightforward. I love that it doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. You can whip it up during a busy weeknight or impress guests at a gathering. The ingredients are easily accessible and can be found in most pantries.

Endless Pairing Possibilities

This dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs wonderfully with various sides like spaghetti, salad, or garlic bread. You can customize it to your liking, making it perfect for different occasions—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.

A Meal Full of Flavor

The flavor profile is rich and satisfying. The combination of fresh herbs like basil, paired with the savory marinara sauce and the creamy cheeses, elevates Crispy Chicken Parmesan to a new level. Each bite is a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking for something to prepare ahead of time, Crispy Chicken Parmesan holds up well in the fridge. You can make it in batches, and it reheats beautifully, making it a smart choice for lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to the ingredients for Crispy Chicken Parmesan, simplicity reigns supreme. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dish’s iconic taste and texture. You’ll find that the combination of breaded chicken, rich cheeses, and zesty marinara sauce works perfectly to create a mouthwatering meal.

2 large chicken breasts (butterflied) – The star of the dish, these chicken breasts create the perfect canvas for all the flavors to build upon.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavor.
2 eggs – Used for breading, they help the breadcrumbs stick and create a deliciously crispy coating.
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs – Adds flavor and texture to the chicken’s crust.
½ cup panko breadcrumbs – These provide an extra crunchiness that elevates the dish.
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Melts beautifully and adds rich, nutty flavor.
¼ cup olive oil – For frying, this adds a rich flavor and helps achieve a golden-brown crust.
1 tbsp minced garlic – Infuses the dish with a wonderful aroma and robust flavor.
2 tbsp fresh basil leaves (thinly sliced) – Brightens the dish with fresh flavor and hints of sweetness.
8 oz. mozzarella cheese (sliced) – Creamy and melty, it’s a must-have for the perfect topping.
Spaghetti and crusty bread (for serving) – Complements the chicken beautifully, making it a complete meal.
26 oz. marinara sauce (1 jar) – Adds a deliciously tangy element that ties everything together.

Recipe Directions for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Cooking Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a delightful process that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. Follow these steps closely to ensure your chicken turns out perfectly crispy and flavorful.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly while it’s baking. You want to get that oven nice and hot!
Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four chicken cutlets. This will help them cook faster and become crispy all around.
Place each chicken cutlet on a smooth flat surface between two layers of plastic wrap. Pound them gently to achieve an even thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch. This ensures even cooking.
Season each cutlet generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the chicken’s flavor.
In a small shallow bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs. In another shallow bowl, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese. This will be your breading mixture.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
Now it’s time to dredge the chicken! Dip each cutlet in the eggs, allowing the excess to drip off, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Add each breaded cutlet to the hot skillet, leaving space in between each piece. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and almost cooked through. If needed, add more olive oil to the skillet.
Once cooked, remove the cutlets from the skillet and turn off the heat. Add half the jar of marinara sauce to the bottom of the skillet, stirring in the brown bits to enhance the flavor.
Carefully place the chicken cutlets back into the skillet on top of the sauce. Spoon additional sauce over each cutlet, then top with 2 slices of mozzarella cheese per breast, along with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the cheese is slightly browned and bubbly. This step truly brings the dish together!
Serve over spaghetti and enjoy! Don’t forget that crusty bread for dipping into the sauce!

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like basil will enhance the flavor profile significantly. Try to use them if possible!
Temperature Matters: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. This will help achieve that perfect crispy crust.
Rest the Chicken: Let your chicken rest for a minute after cooking; this helps keep it juicy.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: A good marinara can make or break the dish. Opt for a quality brand or homemade!

Recipe Variations about Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Whether you’re looking to mix things up or cater to different tastes, here are some variations for Crispy Chicken Parmesan that you can try!

Spinach and Artichoke Variation: Mix sautéed spinach and artichokes into the marinara for a twist that adds flavor and nutrition.
Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Serve the chicken in a toasted bun with some marinara and cheese for a delicious sandwich option.
Healthier Option: Use baked chicken instead of frying to make it lighter, but still delicious!
Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini cutlets for a delightful vegetarian version.
Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a flavor twist.
Serving Style: Try serving your chicken on a bed of creamy polenta instead of pasta for a unique presentation.

Great Combinations for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Wondering how to serve your Crispy Chicken Parmesan? Here are some great ideas!

Classic Pasta Pairing: Serve over spaghetti topped with extra marinara sauce for a traditional meal.
Fresh Salad: A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken nicely.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, crusty garlic bread is a must-have side.
Wine Pairing: Pair with a refreshing sparkling water or a light, fruity beverage for a perfect match.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a great side dish that enhances the meal.
Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or celebrations, bringing everyone together around the table.

FAQ

To store leftovers of Crispy Chicken Parmesan, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can typically last for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the oven to help keep that crispy texture intact. Simply cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out while warming it through.

Yes, you can certainly prepare Crispy Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can cook the chicken completely and store it for a quick meal later on. Just remember to reheat it in the oven for the best results!

While traditional recipes often use Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses as well! Provolone is a great addition for extra flavor, or you can even try gouda for a creamy twist. Just remember to choose cheeses that melt well for that gooey texture.

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can substitute chicken thighs for a more flavorful option. Just keep in mind that thighs may require a slightly longer cooking time. Ensure they reach the recommended internal temperature for safety!

Conclusion

Crispy Chicken Parmesan is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. The combination of crispy chicken, rich cheese, and savory sauce is hard to resist. I encourage you to try making this dish at home! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, you won’t regret it. Give it a go, and watch everyone gather around for seconds!