Crispy and Cheesy Chicken Parmigiana Recipe You’ll Love

There’s a reason Chicken Parmesan—or Chicken Parmigiana—remains one of the most beloved comfort foods in kitchens around the world. With its golden, crispy coating, rich tomato sauce, and bubbly melted cheese, this Italian-American classic delivers indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or want a go-to weeknight favorite, this dish checks every box for simplicity, flavor, and satisfaction.

This recipe takes a traditional approach and makes it accessible for home cooks of any skill level. By following straightforward steps and using everyday ingredients, you’ll create a dish that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant’s version. It’s the kind of meal that feels special, yet doesn’t require complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. For those unfamiliar with this dish’s roots, it’s a proud creation of Italian-American cuisine, blending southern Italian flavors with American tastes. You can learn more about its cultural background from this Wikipedia article on Italian-American cuisine.

The crispy breaded chicken cutlets, known for their satisfying crunch, are at the heart of this recipe. Coated in a seasoned blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (also known as Parmigiano Reggiano), each piece is lightly fried before being topped with a simple tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. Curious about the types of cheese used in this recipe? Take a deeper look at Parmesan cheese here and Mozzarella here to understand why they’re essential.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to master Chicken Parmesan, you’re in the right place. With this recipe, you’ll get the ideal texture—crispy on the outside, juicy inside—and a satisfying balance of tomato, herbs, and cheese. We’ll break down every step so that your Chicken Parmigiana turns out perfectly every time.

Want more inspiration? Check out these curated ideas for easy chicken parmesan recipes or explore a variety of Italian comfort food recipes to build your perfect dinner menu.

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What is Chicken Parmigiana?

Chicken Parmigiana, often called Chicken Parmesan in the United States, is a dish that beautifully blends crispy breaded chicken cutlets with a savory tomato sauce and melted cheese. While its name hints at Italian origins, the dish as we know it is a product of Italian-American cuisine. It’s inspired by southern Italian recipes like melanzane alla Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan), where eggplant slices are layered with sauce and cheese before baking.

In its modern form, Chicken Parmigiana features thinly sliced chicken breasts that are breaded, fried, topped with marinara, sprinkled with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. The key to its appeal lies in the contrast of textures—the crunch of the chicken crust against the gooey, cheesy topping.

Though it’s enjoyed globally today, the dish gained prominence in American restaurants during the mid-20th century, especially in neighborhoods with large Italian immigrant populations. Over time, it became a staple of Italian-American eateries and family dinners alike. If you’re curious about the technique used to coat the chicken, check out this overview of breading methods, which explains why a proper breading station is essential for crispiness.

Today, variations of the recipe are everywhere—from classic baked versions to air-fried adaptations and even sandwiches. In Australia, Chicken Parmigiana is often served in pubs as a “parma,” typically accompanied by fries and salad, showcasing the dish’s global versatility. Whether you call it Parmigiana or Parmesan, this dish remains a hearty, satisfying favorite.

Want to browse visual takes on this dish? Explore Chicken Parmesan dinner inspiration on Pinterest to find creative ways home cooks are plating and serving this timeless recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parmesan Recipe

There are countless Chicken Parmesan recipes out there, but this one stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and texture. It’s designed for busy home cooks who want restaurant-quality results without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting friends, this dish delivers every time.

One of the most appealing aspects of this recipe is how it combines crispy breaded chicken with the rich depth of a quick homemade marinara sauce. The cutlets are pan-fried for golden crunch, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for that gooey, satisfying finish. If you’re unfamiliar with how different frying methods affect the texture, this Wikipedia article on frying techniques is a great resource.

This version of Chicken Parmigiana is:

• Quick and approachable: Ideal for weeknight meals with easy-to-follow steps.
• Kid-friendly: The flavors are familiar and well-loved by picky eaters.
• Customizable: Serve it over pasta, as a sandwich, or with a side of veggies.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bread and fry the chicken in advance, then assemble and bake when ready.

In addition to its practical appeal, this dish taps into nostalgic, comforting flavors. That’s what makes it a reliable go-to for both special occasions and everyday dinners. Curious about the main protein in this dish? You can learn more about chicken as a food in this Wikipedia article, which explores its nutritional benefits and culinary uses.

If you’re planning a full meal around this dish, you can complement it with sides like garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables. For more ideas, browse Italian comfort food recipes that pair beautifully with Chicken Parmesan.

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced in half lengthwise to create 4 even cutlets. This not only ensures faster cooking but also more surface area for that crispy coating.
• Salt and black pepper, for basic seasoning.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour, to help the egg mixture stick.
• 2 large eggs + 2 tablespoons milk, whisked together to create the second layer of the breading.
• 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs, which already contain herbs and seasoning for added flavor.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, to be mixed with the breadcrumbs for a nutty, salty crunch. Learn more about this ingredient’s history and uses in this article on Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon dried oregano, to enhance the flavor of the breading.
• Vegetable oil, for frying. Choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or sunflower oil. If you’re interested in exploring frying options, see this guide to frying techniques.

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, a classic Italian base for sautéing.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced, for aromatic depth.
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes, preferably San Marzano or fire-roasted for a richer taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil, or fresh if you have it.
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional), to balance acidity in the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper, to taste.

You can also opt for a pre-made marinara sauce in a pinch, though a quick homemade version adds more freshness and flavor. For context, check this overview on marinara sauce to understand how it differs from other tomato sauces.

For Assembling

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, or fresh slices for extra meltiness. Learn more about the cheese used in Italian dishes from this Wikipedia page on mozzarella.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for topping.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional), for garnish and added color.
• Cooked spaghetti or pasta of choice, for serving. Traditional Chicken Parmigiana is served with spaghetti, but you can use penne, fettuccine, or even zoodles.

This dish is flexible. You can swap the cheese types, change the herbs, or even use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. For more serving inspiration, check out this board for chicken parmesan dinner inspiration.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these essential kitchen tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient:

• Large skillet or frying pan, for searing the chicken cutlets.
• Baking dish, ideally large enough to fit all the cutlets in a single layer.
• Mixing bowls, for dredging stations (flour, eggs, breadcrumbs).
• Tongs or a fork, to handle the chicken during breading and frying.
• Sharp knife and cutting board, to slice the chicken evenly.
• Spatula or serving spoon, for spreading sauce and serving the final dish.
• Optional: Meat thermometer, to check internal temperature (should reach 165°F/74°C).

Having everything ready before starting helps prevent mistakes and ensures the chicken remains crispy and hot during assembly.

Preparing the Chicken Cutlets

The foundation of Chicken Parmesan is perfectly prepped chicken cutlets. Follow these simple steps to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor:

• Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally, creating four evenly sized cutlets. This not only cooks faster but also gives more surface area for breading and crisping.
• Pound the cutlets (if needed) using a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about ½-inch thick. Uniform thickness ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
• Season both sides of each cutlet generously with salt and pepper. This basic step enhances flavor throughout and shouldn’t be skipped.
• Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls:
  • One with all-purpose flour.
  • One with whisked eggs and milk.
  • One with Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried oregano.

This method creates a triple-layered coating that sticks to the chicken and crisps beautifully when fried. The Parmesan in the breading adds a savory bite, and the oregano gives an unmistakable Italian flair.

If you want gluten-free options, swap flour for rice flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. For more tips on breading methods, check this helpful article.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Setting Up the Breading Station

• Place flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumb mixture in separate shallow bowls.
• Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off the excess.
• Dip into the egg mixture, coating both sides completely.
• Finally, press each cutlet firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a full, even coating.

Frying the Chicken to Golden Perfection

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
• Fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Want to know how frying creates that crispy texture? Learn more about frying techniques.

Making the Tomato Sauce

• In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and sugar (if using).
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Using quality crushed tomatoes makes a big difference here. If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara works too. More on that in this marinara sauce article.

Assembling and Baking

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a large baking dish and spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom.
• Arrange the fried cutlets in a single layer.
• Spoon additional sauce over each piece.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Optional: Broil for the last 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese slightly.

Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving for a fresh finish. Serve hot over spaghetti or your favorite pasta.

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

To make your Chicken Parmigiana restaurant-quality every time, follow these expert tips:

• Don’t skip the dredging process. Each layer helps build that golden, crispy crust.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better melt and flavor than pre-shredded.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after frying to keep it juicy.
• Broil briefly at the end for that signature golden-brown cheese topping.
• Drain the fried chicken properly to avoid soggy breading.
• For an even healthier twist, try air frying or baking the breaded cutlets before assembling.

Want more creative twists? Explore easy chicken parmesan ideas for unique recipe adaptations.

What to Serve With Chicken Parmigiana

Pairing this dish with the right sides elevates your meal from good to unforgettable. Here are some classic and creative options:

• Spaghetti or penne pasta, tossed lightly in olive oil or more marinara sauce.
• Garlic bread or focaccia, for soaking up extra sauce.
• Mixed green salad, with Italian dressing or balsamic vinaigrette.
• Roasted vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• Mashed or roasted potatoes, as a hearty alternative to pasta.
• Zoodles or cauliflower rice, for a low-carb pairing.

Explore more ideas on Italian comfort food recipes to find your perfect match.

Variations to Try

Want to mix it up? Try one of these delicious spins on the classic Chicken Parmesan:

• Chicken Parm Sandwich: Place a cutlet on a toasted hoagie roll with sauce and cheese.
• Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: A lighter, faster option using less oil.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Vegetarian Parmesan: Swap chicken for eggplant or tofu for a meatless alternative.
• Spicy Chicken Parm: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or cayenne to the breading.

These ideas allow you to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs without compromising on flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Chicken Parmesan stores well and can be just as satisfying the next day if reheated properly:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze fully cooked cutlets without pasta for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Microwave only if needed, but the breading may become soft.
• Avoid reheating with pasta already mixed in, as it can become mushy.

Separate sauce from the pasta when storing to maintain the best texture.

FAQs

What is the difference between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?
They are the same dish. “Parmigiana” is the Italian term, while “Parmesan” is the Americanized version. Both refer to breaded chicken topped with tomato sauce and cheese.

Can you make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes. You can bread and fry the cutlets ahead, then assemble and bake them when ready to serve. This makes it ideal for meal prep or dinner parties.

How do you keep the breading crispy after baking?
Avoid adding too much sauce before baking. Only spoon a light amount over each cutlet to prevent sogginess, and consider broiling briefly at the end.

What cheese works best for Chicken Parmesan?
Use shredded mozzarella for melt and Parmesan cheese for saltiness and flavor. Fresh mozzarella slices add creaminess.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes. Bake breaded cutlets at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy, but it’s a healthier alternative.

Is Chicken Parmesan Italian or American?
It’s an Italian-American creation, inspired by traditional Italian eggplant dishes. Learn more about its culinary background in this Italian-American cuisine article.

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