Easy Chicken Parmesan



  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For Serving:

  • Cooked spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or garlic bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Chicken

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
    • Bowl 1: Flour
    • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

3. Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Pan-fry the breaded chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. (The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage—it will finish in the oven.)
  3. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet.

4. Add Sauce and Cheese

  1. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece of chicken, spreading it to cover the surface.
  2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top of the sauce.

5. Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
  2. Optional: Garnish with fresh basil leaves for added freshness.
  3. Serve hot, accompanied by cooked spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or garlic bread.
  4. Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

  • Use Thin Cutlets: Pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2-inch) for faster, more even cooking.
  • Switch Proteins: Substitute chicken with eggplant slices or turkey cutlets for variety.
  • Add Veggies: Top with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This Easy Chicken Parmesan combines the crispy texture of breaded chicken with the rich, savory flavors of marinara sauce and melted cheese into a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The quick preparation ensures consistent results without requiring advanced cooking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone meal or customized with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.

Conclusion: A Dish Everyone Will Love

Whether you’re craving something crispy and cheesy, looking for a way to elevate your weeknight dinners, or simply want to enjoy a homemade treat, this Easy Chicken Parmesan is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and customizable options make it a standout recipe that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.

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