Italian Chicken Parmesan | Classic & Crispy Recipe
January 1, 2024
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This Italian Chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort dish featuring crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. Served over pasta or with a side of garlic bread, this dish is a family favorite that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise (to make 4 thin cutlets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes for spice
- ½ cup shredded provolone for extra cheesiness
Preparation Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thin cutlets. Pound slightly for even thickness.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a third.
Cooking Instructions
1. Bread and Cook the Chicken
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
2. Assemble the Dish
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place cooked chicken cutlets in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
3. Serve
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve hot over spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread.
Final Presentation/Serving Suggestions
- Traditional: Serve over spaghetti with extra marinara sauce.
- Lighter Option: Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
- Sandwich Style: Place inside a toasted hoagie roll for a Chicken Parmesan sandwich.
Nutritional Benefits
- Calories: ~480 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Calcium: High from cheese
- Iron: Found in chicken and breadcrumbs
Grocery List
Protein
- Chicken breasts (2 large)
Dairy
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
- Mozzarella cheese (1 ½ cups, shredded)
- Eggs (2 large)
Pantry Staples
- All-purpose flour (1 cup)
- Italian-style breadcrumbs (1 cup)
- Olive oil (2 tbsp)
- Marinara sauce (1 cup)
- Spices: Garlic powder, oregano, salt, black pepper
Optional
- Fresh basil or parsley (¼ cup)
- Provolone cheese (½ cup)
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and bake the chicken with just Parmesan cheese for a keto-friendly option.