Italian Chicken Parmesan – Breaded, Baked, and Topped with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella

Italian Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parmigiana,” is the ultimate comfort food that brings together crispy, golden-breaded chicken, a tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a timeless dish loved by families around the world. This easy recipe lets you recreate the authentic flavors of Italy in your own kitchen, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 22g
• Dietary Preference: High-protein

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 200g/7 oz each)
• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup (100g) breadcrumbs (use Italian-style for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp olive oil, for frying

For the Sauce and Topping:

• 2 cups (500ml) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil (or fresh basil for garnish)

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• A sprinkle of red pepper flakes

Detailed Method of Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, but not all the way through, and open it like a book. Pound lightly with a meat mallet until the chicken is about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

3. Set up three shallow bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Add flour.
   • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
   • Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Chicken

5. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry 2 chicken breasts at a time, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining chicken, adding more olive oil as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

7. Place the fried chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. For an extra golden finish, switch to the broiler for the last 2 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

10. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with dried basil or fresh basil leaves. Serve hot with a side of pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp salad.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Pound for Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly flattened for consistent cooking and tender results.
• Fresh Mozzarella for Extra Flavor: For a truly indulgent dish, replace shredded mozzarella with slices of fresh mozzarella.
• Homemade Marinara: If you have time, make a fresh marinara sauce with sautéed garlic, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and basil—it elevates the dish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, assemble the dish with sauce and cheese and bake until heated through.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan pairs beautifully with spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce, creamy mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget a slice of garlic bread to soak up the sauce!

Can I bake instead of frying the chicken?

Absolutely! To make a lighter version, skip frying and bake the breaded chicken at 200°C (400°F) for 15-20 minutes before adding the sauce and cheese.

Italian Chicken Parmesan is a true classic that combines crispy breaded chicken with the heartwarming flavors of tangy tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it once, and it’ll quickly become a household favorite. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy a slice of Italy right at your table!