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Classic chicken parmigiana is pure comfort food and a guaranteed family favorite. This version keeps things straightforward but still delivers on that rich cheesy goodness layered over crispy chicken. When I want a cozy meal that pleases everyone at the table this simple Italian recipe is my answer and it never lasts long in our house on busy weeknights or special Sunday dinners.
My kids cheer when they smell this in the oven and I have memories of making it with my grandmother who always insisted on extra sauce and cheese for dunking bread.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: choose ones that are even in thickness for uniform cooking
- All purpose flour: helps the coating stick for a good crust
- Large eggs: beaten to help the breadcrumb layer adhere
- Italian style breadcrumbs: brings herby flavor and crunch use fresh if available
- Grated Parmesan cheese: blended with breadcrumbs adds sharpness and depth
- Marinara sauce: go for a good quality jarred brand or homemade for best results
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for a gooey top
- Grated Parmesan cheese: for topping even more punchy flavor
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley: adds welcome color and freshness
- Olive oil: for frying coats the crust so it gets golden and crisp
- Salt and pepper: essential for seasoning chicken
- Pasta of choice: totally optional but great for making this a full meal
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius so it is nice and hot when you are ready to bake everything together
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season both sides with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece thoroughly in flour shaking off excess then dip in the beaten eggs coating all sides making sure every bit is covered. After the egg mixture coat the chicken in breadcrumbs that have been mixed with half a cup of Parmesan cheese pressing gently so the coating sticks very well
- Fry the Chicken:
- Pour enough olive oil into a large skillet to generously cover the bottom and heat over medium high. Once the oil shimmers lay in the chicken breasts spacing them apart. Fry for about three or four minutes per side without moving until deeply golden and crispy. Move fried chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any extra oil
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the crispy chicken breasts in a single layer. Top each piece with more marinara sauce spreading it out so every bit gets some. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken then finish with the rest of the Parmesan cheese for extra golden top
- Bake:
- Place the dish in your oven uncovered and bake for about twenty minutes. Look for bubbling cheese and sauce around the edges. If you like an even crispier cheesy top switch the oven to broil for two or three minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning
- Serve:
- Lift out the hot cheesy chicken breasts and garnish with chopped basil or parsley for freshness and color. Serve immediately with your favorite pasta garlic bread or a crisp green salad
Seeing the cheese bubble and brown on top is my favorite part and my husband always sneaks extra mozzarella onto his portion for maximum stretch. Once my youngest helped layer on the sauce and was so proud of her creation that she called it her magic chicken.
Storage Tips
Leftover chicken parm stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crisp. For longer storage let pieces cool completely then wrap tightly and freeze up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Italian style breadcrumbs plain work just add dried oregano and basil. Swap in provolone for mozzarella if you want a smokier flavor. Gluten free flour and breadcrumbs can be used for a celiac friendly version. Marinara can easily be swapped for another tomato based pasta sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is classic over spaghetti or linguine but it also shines next to roasted vegetables or on a toasted ciabatta roll as a sandwich. Sometimes I drizzle a little extra olive oil and more Parm on top before serving to mimic the trattoria experience. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving for the best aroma.
Italian Roots
Chicken Parmigiana actually has Italian American origins inspired by eggplant parmigiana from southern Italy. Italian immigrants in the US adapted the dish using readily available chicken and plenty of cheese for a heartier meal loved by generations.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer Serve with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil from the garden In winter Try it with roasted broccoli or winter greens In spring Add a side of lemony asparagus Helpful notes Always pound thicker chicken breasts to even thickness for best cooking You can prep up to the baking step ahead of time Keep an eye on the broiler for golden cheese not burnt cheese
Success Stories
My neighbor made this for a birthday dinner and said the family devoured it in minutes She uses the leftovers for sandwiches the next day and now insists on doubling the recipe. It is a huge hit at our neighborhood potlucks and makes everyone feel like they are sitting down to a restaurant style meal at home.
Enjoy this dish while hot and bubbly and don’t forget the extra sauce for dipping your bread. This recipe always turns simple ingredients into a meal full of memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for Chicken Parmigiana?
Mozzarella and Parmesan offer the best flavor and melting qualities, making the topping indulgent and authentic.
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs can be substituted for extra juiciness; adjust cooking time as needed.
- → How do I keep the chicken crispy after baking?
Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to crisp the cheese and topping without overbaking the chicken.
- → Is store-bought marinara sauce suitable?
Store-bought marinara works well for convenience, but homemade sauce can add extra freshness and depth.
- → What side dishes pair well with Chicken Parmigiana?
Popular sides include spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple green salad to balance the rich flavors.