Introduction
Chicken Parmesan, or Parmigiana di Pollo, is the undisputed king of Italian-American comfort food. This iconic dish features tender, pan-fried chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce, blanketed with melted mozzarella, and finished with a dusting of sharp Parmesan cheese. While the exact origin is debated—likely stemming from Italian immigrants adapting traditional eggplant parmigiana—it remains a globally beloved meal. It’s the perfect blend of crunchy texture, savory flavor, and satisfying cheesiness, making it ideal for a special family dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approx. 700g / 24 oz total)
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1.5 cups (180g) seasoned breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (for breading)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 24 oz (680g) high-quality marinara or tomato sauce
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella, sliced thinly
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated fresh Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create 8 thinner cutlets. Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them gently to a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm). Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
Tip: Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tenderness. - Set up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first, the beaten eggs in the second, and the seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with the 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan in the third.
- Dredge and Coat: Dredge each chicken cutlet first in the flour (shaking off excess), then dip in the egg wash, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Set the coated cutlets aside.
Tip: Press the crumbs firmly to ensure they adhere during frying. - Fry the Cutlets: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place 2-3 cutlets in the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried cutlets to a paper towel-lined plate.
Tip: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, otherwise the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. - Assemble and Bake: Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce into a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Arrange the crispy chicken cutlets over the sauce. Top each cutlet with 2-3 tablespoons of marinara sauce, followed by the slices of fresh mozzarella and a final sprinkle of the remaining grated Parmesan.
- Finish Cooking: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and the sauce is heated through. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Tip: If the cheese isn’t browning, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutritional Information
A single serving (one cutlet with sauce and cheese) typically contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending heavily on the amount of oil absorbed during frying. This dish is an excellent source of lean protein (from the chicken) and calcium (from the cheese). While it is rich in flavor and satisfying, it is higher in saturated fats and sodium due to the frying and cheese, suggesting it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Storage
To store leftovers, allow the Chicken Parmesan to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, place the leftovers in a baking dish and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it tends to make the crispy breading soggy.
Conclusion
This classic Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. Serve your finished cutlets over a bed of al dente spaghetti or linguine, or opt for a lighter side like roasted vegetables or a fresh Caesar salad. For a fun variation, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your marinara sauce for a little heat, or use provolone cheese along with the mozzarella for an extra sharp, salty kick. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food!