Classic Italian Chicken Parmigiana Recipe

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
2 cups marinara sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Steps and instructions

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper.
In another dish, beat the eggs.
In a third dish, mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Spread 1 cup of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the browned chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
Top each chicken breast with the remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken is cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the chopped fresh basil before serving.

Tools for making

Meat mallet - Used to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Shallow dish - Used for mixing the flour, salt, and pepper.
Another dish - Used for beating the eggs.
Third dish - Used for mixing the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
Large skillet - Used for browning the chicken breasts.
Baking dish - Used for baking the chicken Parmigiana in the oven.

Recipe variations

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier crust.
Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Try using different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, instead of mozzarella.
Add some Italian herbs or spices, like oregano or garlic powder, to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with breaded eggplant slices.
Experiment with different sauces, like a creamy Alfredo sauce or a spicy arrabbiata sauce, instead of marinara.
Add some sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the dish for additional texture and flavor.
Create a lighter version by baking the breaded chicken instead of frying it.
Make mini chicken Parmigiana sliders by using smaller chicken pieces and slider buns.
For a low-carb option, use zucchini or eggplant slices as the base instead of chicken.

Recipe overview

Get ready to experience the joy of making a classic Italian dish right in your own kitchen. Our Chicken Parmigiana recipe is simple to follow and promises a scrumptious meal that the whole family will enjoy. With tender chicken coated in crisp breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this recipe will transport you straight to Italy. The final touch of fresh basil brings a pop of color and a burst of flavor. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Parmigiana is a dish that is sure to impress.

Common questions

How long does it take to cook Chicken Parmigiana?
The chicken Parmigiana takes approximately 45-50 minutes to prepare, including both the cooking and baking time.
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
While boneless chicken breasts are typically used for Chicken Parmigiana, you can use bone-in chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese if you'd like. However, mozzarella cheese melts well and has a mild flavor that pairs nicely with the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the breaded chicken breasts ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. You can also assemble the dish with sauce and cheese, refrigerate it, and bake it later. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if the dish is cold from the refrigerator.
What can I serve with Chicken Parmigiana?
Chicken Parmigiana is often served with pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, and a side of garlic bread. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking dish - A dish used for baking the chicken parmigiana in the oven.
Skillet - A large frying pan used for browning the chicken breasts.
Meat mallet - A kitchen tool used for pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
Plastic wrap - Used for wrapping the chicken breasts before pounding them.
Shallow dishes - Used for coating the chicken breasts in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
Oven mitts - Used to safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
Spatula - Used for flipping and transferring the chicken breasts while cooking.

Origin stories

Despite its Italian-sounding name, Chicken Parmigiana, or simply 'Chicken Parm', is believed to have originated in the United States among Italian immigrants. In the early 20th century, these immigrants started combining traditional ingredients from their homeland with the bounty of meat available in their new country. Parmigiana actually refers to a Southern Italian dish made with eggplant, not chicken. However, the immigrants substituted chicken due to its widespread availability in America. This melding of Italian and American cuisines gave birth to the dish we now know and love. So while you're savoring that crunchy, cheesy goodness, know that you're biting into a piece of culinary history - a testament to the resourcefulness and creativity of those early immigrants who blended the flavors of their old and new homes to create something uniquely delicious.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.