Parmesan Chicken

Short Description
Parmesan Chicken is a classic comfort dish that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese. Coated in a flavorful blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then baked or pan-fried to golden perfection, this recipe brings Italian-inspired flavor to your dinner table in a way that’s both simple and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy, cheesy crust with tender, juicy chicken

Easy-to-follow method with simple pantry ingredients

Versatile—serve with pasta, salad, or vegetables

Kid-friendly and ideal for family dinners

Can be baked or pan-fried

Perfect for meal prep or leftovers

Melty mozzarella adds irresistible gooeyness

Crowd-pleaser that feels like restaurant-quality

Customizable with herbs and seasonings

Delicious on its own or with marinara

Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)

1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional additions:

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 eggs, beaten (for breading)

Olive oil (for frying or drizzling if baking)

Marinara sauce (for serving, optional)

Directions
1. Prepare the chicken:
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet for even cooking. Pat dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Set up breading stations:

Place flour in one shallow bowl.

In a second bowl, beat 2 eggs (if using).

In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with ½ cup of Parmesan cheese (add Italian seasoning if desired).

3. Bread the chicken:
Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press the coating onto the chicken to adhere well.

4. Cook the chicken:
Option A – Pan-fry:
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
Option B – Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and golden.

5. Add cheese:
Sprinkle remaining ½ cup Parmesan and mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken. Return to oven or cover skillet until cheese is melted and bubbly (about 5 minutes).

6. Serve:
Serve hot, optionally with marinara sauce and a side of pasta, vegetables, or salad.

Servings and timing
Servings: 4

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Estimated Calories: ~480 kcal per serving

Variations
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Low-Carb: Replace flour and breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Herbed Crust: Add chopped fresh parsley or basil to the breading mix.

Saucy Version: Top with marinara before baking with cheese for a Chicken Parmesan twist.

Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.

Stuffed Chicken: Slice and stuff with spinach and cheese before breading for a gourmet option.

Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing: Freeze breaded but uncooked chicken on a tray, then transfer to freezer bags. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crust.

FAQs
Do I need to use both Parmesan and mozzarella?
Parmesan adds flavor and crunch, while mozzarella provides meltiness. Both are recommended for best results.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and are very juicy.

Is it better to bake or fry this dish?
Both methods work. Frying gives a crispier crust, while baking is easier and healthier.

What breadcrumbs work best?
Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor, but plain breadcrumbs or Panko offer excellent crunch.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Should I pound the chicken?
Yes, it ensures even cooking and prevents dry edges.

Can I add sauce on top?
Absolutely—top with marinara before melting the cheese for a traditional Chicken Parmesan style.

What sides go well with Parmesan Chicken?
Try spaghetti, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once.

Conclusion
Parmesan Chicken is a timeless, satisfying dish that combines the best of crisp, cheesy breading with tender, flavorful chicken. With its versatile prep options and family-friendly appeal, this recipe is a go-to for weeknight meals or casual entertaining. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and comforting meal.

Parmesan Chicken

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4-servings

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Description

This Parmesan Chicken is a crispy, cheesy, oven-baked classic featuring juicy chicken breasts coated in a golden crust of parmesan and breadcrumbs. Topped with melty mozzarella and a sprinkle of more parmesan, it’s a perfect family-friendly dinner that pairs beautifully with pasta or salad.

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup bread crumbs

• 1 cup parmesan cheese, divided

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.

• Prep dredging stations:

  • Place flour in one shallow bowl.

  • Beat eggs in a second bowl.

  • In a third bowl, mix bread crumbs with ½ cup parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

• Coat the chicken:

  • Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in breadcrumb-parmesan mixture. Press to adhere.

• Bake the chicken:

  • Place in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Add cheese:

  • Remove from oven, sprinkle mozzarella and remaining ½ cup parmesan over the top.

  • Bake an additional 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with marinara sauce, pasta, or salad if desired.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, lightly pan-fry the coated chicken in oil before baking.

• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for more uniform cooking.

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American