Parmesan Chicken, or Chicken Parmesan (Chicken Parmigiana) as it’s often called, is a popular Italian-American dish known for its crispy, golden-breaded chicken breast topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The combination of crispy chicken and savory, gooey cheese is incredibly satisfying, making it a favorite for family dinners, special occasions, or weeknight meals.
In this guide, you will learn how to make a classic Crispy Parmesan Chicken from scratch, with a simple step-by-step process, tips for achieving the perfect crunch, and ways to customize the dish to suit your preferences. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and sure to impress.
The Origins of Chicken Parmesan
Though Chicken Parmesan is considered a staple in Italian-American cuisine, its roots trace back to Italy. The dish is inspired by the Italian classic Eggplant Parmesan (Melanzane alla Parmigiana), which consists of layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and cheese. Italian immigrants in America adapted the recipe, substituting eggplant with chicken to create the hearty, protein-packed version we know today.
Chicken Parmesan has since evolved into a beloved dish worldwide, often served with pasta, salad, or garlic bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Parmesan Chicken from scratch, you will need the following ingredients. These are common items at any grocery store, making this dish accessible and easy to prepare.
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness for even cooking)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (either regular or panko for added crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying the chicken)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (adds an herbaceous flavor to the breading)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups marinara or tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or provolone cheese for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling on top before serving)
Equipment Needed
To prepare this Crispy Parmesan Chicken, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Oven – This is used to bake the chicken after frying.
- Baking Sheet – To hold the chicken while it bakes in the oven.
- Mixing Bowl – For combining ingredients like breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Tongs or Spatula – To flip the chicken during cooking.
- Grater – To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese.
- Skillet – For frying the chicken before baking.
- Meat Mallet – Ideal for pounding the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Parmesan Chicken
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake the chicken, giving you a crispy, perfectly cooked meal.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Pound the Chicken:
- Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness (approximately 1/2 inch thick for consistent cooking). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and prevents it from being undercooked in some areas and overcooked in others.
3. Prepare the Breading
Set up the Breading Stations:
- In one shallow dish, whisk together 2 eggs.
- In another shallow dish, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. You can add Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes at this stage for extra flavor.
Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s completely coated on all sides.
- Next, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly covered with the Parmesan breadcrumb coating.
Tip: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating. They have a lighter, flakier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
4. Fry the Chicken
Heat the Olive Oil:
- Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s ready for frying.. The oil should be hot enough to fry the chicken but not so hot that it burns the coating.
Fry the Chicken:
- Place the breaded chicken breasts in the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown. You’re not cooking the chicken through at this stage, just getting a crispy exterior.
Tip: Fry the chicken in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough to hold all the pieces simultaneously. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent the chicken from steaming instead of frying.
5. Bake the Chicken
After frying the chicken, transfer it to a baking sheet to finish cooking in the oven.
Top with Tomato Sauce and Cheese:
- Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce. The combination of these cheeses will create a melty, golden topping.
Bake the Chicken:
- Bake the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This step guarantees that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to consume.
- Once baked, the cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the chicken should be tender and juicy.
6. Garnish and Serve
When the Parmesan Chicken is finished baking, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps to lock in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and moist.
Garnish:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of fresh flavor..
- If desired, sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan on top.
Serve:
- Parmesan Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- A side of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Chicken
To ensure your Crispy Parmesan Chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
1. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a more robust flavor than pre-packaged varieties. Grating it yourself ensures that the cheese blends seamlessly into the breadcrumb mixture and provides the best texture.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
When frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures that the chicken fries properly and doesn’t steam, which can result in a soggy crust. Fry the chicken in batches if needed.
3. Use a Meat Thermometer
To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat while moist and tender.
4. Customize the Marinara Sauce
For a richer flavor, you can customize your marinara sauce by adding:
- Sprinkle a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
- Fresh basil or oregano for a more herby, Italian flavour.
- Garlic powder or onion powder to boost the savoury taste.
5. Make it Ahead
You can prepare the chicken up to the frying stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This step simplifies the assembly of the dish when it’s time to serve
Variations of Parmesan Chicken
Although the classic Parmesan Chicken recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your tastes:
1. Spicy Parmesan Chicken
- Add cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to spice the chicken. You can also sprinkle chili flakes on the marinara sauce for extra heat.
2. Lighter Version
- For a lighter version, skip the frying and bake the breaded chicken directly in the oven. Simply spray the chicken with a cooking spray before baking to help it achieve a crispy texture without the extra oil.
3. Gluten-Free Parmesan Chicken
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
4. **
Herb-Crusted Parmesan Chicken**
- Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist. This gives the chicken a fragrant, earthy flavor.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for one serving of Parmesan Chicken (based on a serving size of 150g):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 300 IU
- Calcium: 100 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken up to the frying stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, top with marinara sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.
2. Can I freeze Parmesan Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze Parmesan Chicken before baking. Once the chicken is breaded and fried, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator, top with sauce and cheese, and bake.
3. Can I bake the chicken without frying it first?
Yes, for a healthier version, you can skip the frying and bake the breaded chicken directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. Spray the chicken with cooking spray before baking to help it achieve a crispy texture.
4. What sides pair well with Parmesan Chicken?
Parmesan Chicken pairs well with:
- Spaghetti or any pasta with marinara sauce.
- Garlic bread.
- A green salad.
- Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus.
5. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the chicken breasts. Be sure to adjust the cooking time, as chicken thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy, breaded chicken with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal. Whether you’re making this dish for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. With this simple recipe, you can easily prepare restaurant-quality Chicken Parmesan in the comfort of your own home.
Don’t forget to experiment with variations and serve them with your favorite sides for a delicious meal. Enjoy!
For more Parmesan Chicken, check out the link
Parmesan Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Oven: For baking the chicken.
- 1 Baking Sheet Use to hold the chicken while it bakes in the oven.
- 1 Mixing bowl For mixing ingredients like breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
- 1 Tongs or Spatula For flipping the chicken during cooking.
- 1 Grater To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it in the bread crumb mixture.
Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it’s ready for cooking.
Cook the chicken in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- “For an extra-crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan.”
- “This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.”
- “You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months.”