Why You’ll Love Classic Chicken Parmigiana (Family Recipe) Recipe
This Chicken Parmigiana recipe delivers a perfect balance of crispy breaded chicken, savory tomato sauce, and gooey cheese. It offers versatility with two cooking methods (pan‑fried or baked), letting you choose between traditional richness or a lighter finish. Whether served with pasta, on a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, this dish is a satisfying comfort classic you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the chicken
flour
eggs
olive oil
bread crumbs
Parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
Italian herb blend
garlic powder
For the topping
mozzarella slices
marinara sauce
more Parmesan cheese
fresh basil
Directions
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Prepare the chicken: Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create cutlets. Tenderize the cutlets to about ½ inch thickness, then pat dry.
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Season and bread: Set up three shallow dishes — one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
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Brown the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Cook each breaded cutlet until golden brown on both sides.
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Assemble: Place browned chicken cutlets in a baking dish. Top each with mozzarella slices and spoon marinara sauce over them.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through. Finish with more Parmesan and fresh chopped basil.
Servings and timing
Serves: 6
Prep time: About 30 minutes
Cook time: 15–25 minutes (depending on chosen method)
Variations
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Baked only version: Skip the skillet and bake the breaded chicken for a lighter preparation. Brush lightly with olive oil for a crispy finish.
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Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix or marinara sauce.
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Low-carb version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
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Different cheese: Substitute provolone or fontina for mozzarella for a unique flavor.
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Add veggies: Layer sautéed spinach or roasted eggplant between the chicken and cheese.
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Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
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Herb-crusted: Add fresh chopped parsley and oregano to the breadcrumb mix.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melted. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, though the crust may lose some crispness. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
How do I prevent the breading from falling off the chicken?
Pat the chicken dry before breading and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the cutlets for better adhesion.
Can I bake instead of pan‑frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative. Brush the breaded cutlets with olive oil and bake until golden.
What sauce should I use?
Use a thick, high-quality marinara sauce—either homemade or store-bought—to prevent sogginess.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They’ll be juicier but may require a slightly longer cook time.
Is this recipe gluten‑free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
What cheese is best for Chicken Parmigiana?
Fresh mozzarella and grated Parmesan melt well and provide the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate it. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
What should I serve with Chicken Parmigiana?
It pairs well with pasta, garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables.
How do I keep the chicken from getting soggy?
Avoid over-saucing and bake uncovered to maintain a crisp crust.
Can I air‑fry this recipe?
Yes, you can air-fry the breaded cutlets before adding sauce and cheese. It yields a crispy result with less oil.
Conclusion
This Classic Chicken Parmigiana blends crispy breaded chicken with savory marinara and melty cheese to create a timeless and satisfying meal. With flexible cooking methods and a rich flavor profile, it’s a comforting favorite you’ll return to again and again—perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
