If you are craving a comforting and mouthwatering Italian meal, let me introduce you to this Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe. It perfectly captures the magic of crispy, golden chicken cutlets layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. Every bite bursts with a blend of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors that simply melt in your mouth. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows raw chicken pieces placed on white parchment paper slightly crumpled, positioned on a white marbled surface. Around the chicken, there are several small white bowls with different dry and wet ingredients arranged in a neat row: golden olive oil, beige breadcrumbs, white flour, white grated cheese, and light yellow panko. Three brown eggs rest on the surface near a white bowl filled with coarse white and black spices mixed with salt and other seasonings. A small wooden bowl with chopped green herbs and another with red chili flakes are nearby. To the left, thin white slices of cheese are stacked on a white plate. On the far right, there is a jar of red tomato sauce with visible texture inside. The setup is clean and organized with a top-down view, perfect for recipe preparation photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing an important role in building the texture and depth of flavor that makes Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe so irresistible. From the crispy panko coating to the fresh basil garnish, every element adds something special.

3 large eggs: These help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to the chicken for that beautiful crust.
½ cup all-purpose flour: It creates a light base layer on the chicken to hold the egg wash.
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko gives an extra crispy and airy crunch that’s a signature of this dish.
⅓ cup plain breadcrumbs: Adds a traditional breading texture and works well combined with panko.
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds that sharp, nutty, umami-packed flavor to the breading and garnish.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a subtle aromatic warmth that complements every bite.
1½ teaspoons sea salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors in the recipe perfectly.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper: Provides a mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that ties the entire dish together.
3 large chicken breasts, butterflied, then cut into 6 cutlets: Tender chicken pieces ready to soak up all the flavors.
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil: For frying the chicken to a golden, crispy perfection.
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: The tangy tomato sauce base that adds moisture and zest.
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 12 thin slices: Gives that irresistible stretchy, melty cheese topping.
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: Adds a bright, fresh herbaceous note as a garnish.
Red pepper flakes, optional: For a subtle spicy kick if you like your chicken parmesan with a bit of heat.

How to Make Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Breading Stations

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and positioning a rack in the center to ensure even cooking. While the oven warms, set up your breading stations with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one whisked eggs, and one mixing the panko, plain breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. This preparation makes the breading process seamless and organized.

Step 2: Season and Bread the Chicken Cutlets

Combine garlic powder, sea salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl and evenly season the chicken cutlets on all sides. Dredge each piece first in the flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, allowing the surplus to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mix until thoroughly coated. This triple-layer breading will give you that iconic crispy exterior once cooked.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Cutlets

Heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add three chicken cutlets and cook each side for about two minutes until golden brown and enticingly crisp. Transfer the browned cutlets to a baking sheet, then add the remainder of the olive oil to the pan and repeat with the remaining cutlets. This initial sear locks in juices and develops complex flavor.

Step 4: Bake with Sauce and Cheese

Once all chicken cutlets are browned and arranged on the baking sheet, spoon about a quarter cup of marinara sauce over each piece. Then layer two slices of fresh mozzarella per cutlet. Pop everything into the oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and melted and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This baking melds the flavors beautifully while ensuring juicy chicken within a crispy shell.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve with Love

Pull the chicken parmesan from the oven, sprinkle chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese on top, and if you love a little spice, scatter some red pepper flakes. These finishing touches brighten the dish and add fresh, savory layers, ready to wow your family or guests.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

The image shows six pieces of breaded chicken on a metal baking tray. Each piece is topped with a layer of red tomato sauce and a thick layer of melted, slightly browned white cheese with some golden spots. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the cheese, adding some fresh contrast. The tray has some darker browned spots where the cheese melted and baked. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Classic garnishes like chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese add a vibrant color contrast and amplify the flavors with their fresh, nutty, and aromatic qualities. If you enjoy some heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes wakes up every bite for an exciting twist.

Side Dishes

Traditional sides for your Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe include a simple spaghetti tossed in olive oil and garlic or a creamy risotto for a luxurious accompaniment. Steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad with vinaigrette are also wonderful to balance the richness of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken parmesan stacked on toasted garlic bread for a hearty sandwich. Alternatively, plate the cutlets over a bed of fresh arugula lightly dressed in lemon juice and olive oil for a lighter, refreshing take. Presentation with a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers can elevate it for a special dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover chicken parmesan tightly in aluminum foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making reheated servings taste just as delightful.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze fully cooled chicken parmesan in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored frozen for up to 2 months, ready to be thawed and enjoyed later without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, uncovered, to maintain the crispiness of the breading while warming the cheese perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for the Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe?

Yes! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to butterfly and pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs on hand?

Plain breadcrumbs can work in a pinch, though panko is preferred for its crispiness. You can also crush cornflakes or crackers to mimic the crunchy texture panko provides.

Is it necessary to fry the chicken before baking?

Frying the chicken briefly creates that golden crust that makes Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe so distinctive. Baking alone won’t give the same crispy texture, so this step is highly recommended.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free alternatives, such as almond flour and gluten-free panko, to keep the recipe safe for gluten sensitivity.

What’s the best way to melt the mozzarella evenly?

Place thin slices of fresh mozzarella evenly across the chicken and let it bake uncovered in a hot oven. This helps the cheese melt uniformly while forming delicious golden spots.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe has everything you could want in a homemade Italian favorite—crispy coating, tender chicken, melty cheese, and bright, rich tomato sauce. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and invites everyone to gather around the table with smiles. Give it a try and see how effortlessly it becomes a beloved staple in your meal rotation!