Crispy Chicken Parmesan for the Ultimate Comfort Meal

There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Crispy Chicken Parmesan. The perfect balance of crispy, golden breading and tender, juicy chicken, all topped with rich Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a special meal for family and friends, this dish never fails to impress. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe in any kitchen. And the best part? You can easily customize it to your tastes, whether you prefer a spicier marinara sauce or an extra cheesy finish. Ready to dive into this crispy, cheesy delight? Let’s get started!

Key Benefits of Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Who doesn’t love a crispy, golden-brown crust on chicken? With Crispy Chicken Parmesan, you get the perfect balance of crispy coating and juicy, tender chicken fillets, all topped with melted mozzarella and rich Parmesan cheese.

The secret lies in the breadcrumb crust that provides that satisfying crunch with every bite. This dish is a showstopper, combining the savory goodness of Italian flavors in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Plus, it’s a great source of protein, making it not only delicious but also nutritious, so you can enjoy a satisfying, hearty meal without feeling guilty. This chicken parm recipe checks all the boxes: quick, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible!

Ingredients For Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Crispy Chicken Parmesan from scratch:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon salt to season
• 3 large chicken breasts (halved horizontally to make 6 fillets)
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup Italian or golden breadcrumbs
• ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ cup olive oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 14 ounces tomato puree (Passata)
• ¼ teaspoon salt, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

For the Topping:

• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)
• ⅓ cup fresh shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions For Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Crispy Chicken Parmesan:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken fillets to the egg mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and marinate for at least 15 minutes (or overnight, if time permits).
2. Coat the Chicken:
   • In another shallow dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Once the chicken is marinated, dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
3. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the chicken fillets for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan to ensure an even fry.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   • Preheat your oven to 430°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or dish with non-stick spray. Place the fried chicken on the tray. Top each fillet with ⅓ cup of your homemade tomato sauce, followed by 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese and 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Make the Sauce:
   • In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion for 3 minutes, until soft. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in the tomato puree, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and sugar (if desired). Let the sauce simmer for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary.

Pro Tips and Variations

1. For Extra Crispy Coating: Want your Crispy Chicken Parmesan even crunchier? Double-coat your chicken! After dipping it in the egg and breadcrumb mixture, dip it back into the egg and breadcrumbs again. This extra layer gives you an unbeatable crunch.
2. Gluten-Free Option: If you or your guests follow a gluten-free diet, no worries! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free options, and you’ve got a delicious chicken parm recipe suitable for everyone.
3. Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of spice, stir some red pepper flakes into your marinara sauce for a fiery kick that takes this dish to the next level.
4. Make-Ahead Option: For even easier preparation, you can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This helps the coating stick better during frying and saves you time when you’re ready to cook.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Chicken Parmesan pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes to complete your meal:

• Pasta: Serve it alongside a classic pasta like spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne for the perfect Italian combo.
• Garlic Bread: You can never go wrong with some warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
• Salad: Add a fresh side salad like a Caesar or mixed greens to balance out the richness of the dish.
• Vegetables: Try pairing it with steamed vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, for a healthier, more colorful plate.

Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top to elevate the flavor and make your dish even more visually appealing!

Other Recipes You Might Like

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Chicken Parmesan Casserole
• Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser. With its golden, crispy crust, melty cheese, and savory sauce, this dish delivers both flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress. So go ahead, make it tonight, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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