Chicken Parmesan, or Pollo alla Parmigiana, is an iconic Italian-American dish that combines the best of comfort food and Italian flavors. With its crispy, breaded chicken cutlets layered with tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, this dish is a family favorite across the United States. Although inspired by Italian eggplant parmigiana, this hearty version using chicken became a staple in Italian-American cuisine. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a satisfying blend of textures and rich flavors that never fails to impress.
Whether served on its own, over spaghetti, or tucked into a sandwich, Chicken Parmesan is a timeless classic that will bring warmth to any table!
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved and pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
- For the Sauce and Topping:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the breaded chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Lay the fried chicken on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over each piece.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve hot, alongside spaghetti, salad, or crusty bread.
Tips:
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor.
- Double the marinara sauce if serving with pasta for extra sauciness.
- For a healthier version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying.