Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best Chicken Parmesan is a crispy, golden breaded chicken breast topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a classic Italian-American comfort dish that’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or whenever you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and pounded thin)
all-purpose flour
eggs
Italian-style breadcrumbs
grated Parmesan cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
olive oil (for frying)
marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
optional: spaghetti or pasta for serving

directions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Fry chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Place the fried chicken in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.

Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot, optionally over pasta.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Swap marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce.

Add a layer of prosciutto or sautéed mushrooms under the cheese.

Make it lighter by baking instead of frying.

Use provolone or a mozzarella-Parmesan blend for the topping.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and crispy, or microwave in short bursts.
Freeze for up to 2 months—reheat from frozen or thaw overnight before baking.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, bake breaded chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless breasts pounded thin cook evenly and quickly.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Yes, slice and use sparingly to avoid excess moisture.

Is marinara sauce necessary?

Yes, it adds flavor and moisture—use your favorite brand or homemade.

Can I make it ahead?

Bread and fry the chicken ahead, then bake with sauce and cheese when ready to serve.

How do I keep the breading crispy?

Fry until golden and avoid over-saucing before baking.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs work but may need slightly longer cooking.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Is this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or bake in two batches.

Conclusion

Best Chicken Parmesan is a timeless favorite with crispy, tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and melty cheese in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for guests or a family dinner, this beloved dish delivers comfort, flavor, and crowd-pleasing satisfaction every time.