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Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring juicy breaded chicken breasts fried to a golden crisp, topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This flavorful and comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a deliciously crunchy texture combined with gooey cheesy goodness that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Breading

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Italian-seasoned or panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour alternative)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sauce and Toppings

  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or quality store-bought)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese for topping

For Frying and Flavor

  • Olive oil, for frying
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Fresh basil and oregano, chopped (optional, for breading or garnish)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch, to ensure they cook evenly and remain tender.
  2. Set up the breading station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
  4. Fry until golden: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  5. Assemble and bake: Place the fried chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top generously with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a fresh and vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even crispiness.
  • Pat chicken dry before breading to help coating stick better.
  • Let fried chicken rest briefly before baking so the breading stays intact under the cheese.
  • Use slowly simmered homemade or high-quality store-bought marinara sauce for deeper flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Crispy Chicken, Italian-American, Comfort Food, Gluten-Free, Breaded Chicken, Baked Chicken Parmesan