Crispy Chicken Parmesan: A Classic Italian-American Comfort

Crispy Chicken Parmesan

There’s something magical about Chicken Parmesan.

It’s a dish that feels like a hug on a plate—crispy, golden chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara, bubbling mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, Chicken Parmesan is your ticket to instant smiles.

Let’s dive in and make this comfort food favorite with a Maggie-approved shortcut twist!

How to Make It

Note: This is an overview. See the recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Prepare and Flatten the Chicken:
Take your boneless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to gently pound each piece to about ½ inch thickness for even cooking.

Set Up the Breading Station:
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper in the flour for added flavor.

Bread the Chicken:
Coat each chicken breast first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an even, thick coating.

Pan-Fry the Cutlets:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the breaded chicken breasts. Fry each piece for 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Assemble the Dish:
Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, then top with slices of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Bake to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbling, and golden at the edges.

Serve and Garnish:
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. Pair with spaghetti or a green salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

• Cheese Quality Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella for maximum flavor and meltiness.
• Double Dredge: For ultra-crispy chicken, double-dip the cutlets in the breadcrumbs before frying.
• Drain the Cutlets: Place fried cutlets on a wire rack instead of paper towels to keep them crispy.
• Homemade Marinara: If you have time, homemade marinara sauce can elevate this dish to the next level.
• Fresh Basil: Add basil after baking to retain its fresh, fragrant flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the breading crisp.
• Freeze: Assemble the dish without baking and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.