Crispy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan: A Comforting Classic Made Simple

When it comes to timeless comfort food, Crispy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan holds a special place at the dinner table. This dish combines crispy, golden-breaded chicken with a rich layer of marinara sauce and gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. While it sounds fancy, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe offers an approachable way to create a restaurant-quality dish at home. First, tender chicken breasts are seasoned and coated with a flavorful breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, then lightly fried to golden perfection. This step locks in the crispiness, so the chicken stays crunchy even after baking.

Next, the magic happens as marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese combine to create that signature cheesy goodness. Not only does this make the dish incredibly flavorful, but it also ensures every bite is irresistibly satisfying. Plus, the final bake in the oven brings everything together, giving you perfectly cooked chicken topped with bubbly, browned cheese.

If you’re wondering what to serve alongside this classic dish, the options are endless. Pair it with spaghetti for an Italian-inspired meal, or keep it light with a fresh green salad and roasted vegetables. No matter how you choose to serve it, Crispy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan always feels like a celebration on a plate.

So, why not bring a little joy to your table tonight? This recipe is simple enough for beginners but impressive enough to wow guests. With its perfect blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll quickly discover why Crispy Cheesy Chicken Parmesan is a comfort food classic worth savoring!

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

INGREDIENTS
2 large chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs total), halved lengthwise
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 ½ cups marinara sauce (use high-quality for better flavor)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
5 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F. Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Slice each breast lengthwise into four even pieces to ensure even cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to enhance flavor.
3. Set up the dredging station: To start the breading process, arrange three shallow bowls. One should contain flour, another beaten eggs, and the third a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. This setup ensures the process is smooth and organized.
4. Coat the chicken: Begin by dredging each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps. Then, dip each piece into the beaten eggs, making sure they’re fully coated. Finally, press each chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture to create a thick, even crust.
5. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, cook the chicken in batches for 2–3 min on each side until golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this prevents even cooking. Remember, the chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
6. Assemble the dish: Once the chicken is cooked, carefully transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Next, spoon about 3 tbsp marinara sauce over each piece, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. Afterward, pour the remaining marinara sauce around the chicken in the baking dish to create a flavorful and rich base. Finally, top each piece with a generous portion of shredded mozzarella cheese to complete the assembly.
7. Bake: Place the chicken in the oven and bake for 15–18 min. During this time, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the cheese becomes melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Finally, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with fresh basil, if desired. Serve alongside spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients for Maximum Flavor: To achieve the best possible taste and texture, always choose freshly grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella. Furthermore, opt for high-quality marinara sauce, as it enhances the overall richness of the dish. By making these small adjustments, you’ll notice a significant difference in the final result.
• Ensure Even Coating for Crispy Perfection: When breading the chicken, it’s important to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto each piece. This step helps create a thick, even crust, which ensures the chicken stays crispy even after baking. Additionally, for those who prefer extra crunch, consider broiling the chicken for a few minutes after baking to achieve that golden, crispy finish.
• Cook in Batches for Better Results: While frying the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. By cooking in smaller batches, you’ll ensure even browning and prevent the chicken from becoming soggy. Moreover, if the oil begins to burn, it’s a good idea to wipe the skillet clean and add fresh oil before starting the next batch. This extra step makes a noticeable difference in maintaining the perfect texture.