Introduction:
Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a beloved Italian-American classic, perfect for a comforting dinner that feels both indulgent and satisfying. The dish features tender chicken breasts coated in golden, seasoned breadcrumbs, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Paired with spaghetti tossed in rich tomato sauce, this meal is hearty, flavorful, and always a hit at the dinner table.
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko mixed with Italian seasoning)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Topping:
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
- Salt (for pasta water)
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions & Method:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Place chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to even thickness (about ½ inch thick).
- Season: Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Breading Station
- Set up three shallow bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Eggs beaten with 1 tbsp milk
- Bowl 3: Mix of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder
- Dredge each cutlet in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken
- Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken cutlets 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C).
- Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place fried chicken cutlets on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra golden cheese (optional).
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with marinara sauce and a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate a bed of sauced spaghetti.
- Top with a crispy chicken Parmesan cutlet.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil if desired.
- Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.
🍷 Serving Suggestion:
Pair with a green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot for a full Italian-inspired meal.
✅ Tips:
- Make it healthier: Bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 20 minutes instead of frying.
- Cheese swap: Try provolone or fontina for a twist.
- Crispier chicken: Let the breaded chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before frying to help the coating stick better.