Classic Chicken Parmesan (Family Recipe)

I love how this chicken parmesan recipe brings comfort and flavor to the table with simple, wholesome ingredients. Crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese all come together to create a meal that feels like home every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. The breading is flavorful and crisp, the marinara adds that perfect tang, and the melted cheese makes it irresistible. It’s a family recipe that always gets everyone excited for dinner.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken
3 chicken breasts, sliced in half length-wise to create 6 cutlets
1/2 cup all-purpose flour can also use gluten-free flour blend or white whole wheat
3 eggs, whisked
1/3 cup olive oil

Breadcrumbs
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp (each) salt & pepper
2 tsp Italian herb blend (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary)
1 tsp garlic powder

For the Topping
6 slices Mozzarella
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. I set up a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
3. I dip each chicken cutlet first in flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. In a skillet, I heat olive oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the chicken cutlets for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. I transfer the chicken to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
6. I place a slice of mozzarella on each cutlet, sprinkle with parmesan, and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
7. I garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 6 servings. It takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 50 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the mozzarella slices for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. For a lighter version, I bake the breaded chicken instead of pan-frying before adding sauce and cheese. If I want a little spice, I add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps keep the breading crisp. I avoid microwaving since it softens the coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I can use boneless, skinless thighs, though the cooking time may be slightly longer.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, I use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Do I have to fry the chicken?

Not necessarily—I can bake the breaded cutlets at 400°F for 20 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.

What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

I like using a simple homemade marinara, but any good-quality store-bought sauce works.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the breaded chicken with sauce and cheese, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

What sides go well with chicken parmesan?

I like serving it with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a green salad.

Can I freeze chicken parmesan?

Yes, I freeze it after baking and reheat it in the oven at 350°F until hot.

How do I keep the breading crispy?

I avoid overcrowding the pan while frying and always reheat in the oven instead of the microwave.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the breadcrumbs?

Yes, I sometimes add fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for extra flavor.

What’s the best way to slice the chicken breasts?

I hold the breast flat with my hand and carefully slice it in half lengthwise to create even cutlets.

Conclusion

I enjoy making this classic chicken parmesan because it’s a timeless recipe that never disappoints. The crispy coating, savory marinara, and melty cheese create the perfect combination of flavors, making it one of my favorite family meals to serve again and again.

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