Description
A quick, crispy, and kid-approved chicken parmesan recipe that uses pantry staples and takes only 30 minutes to make. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting, restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- Splash of milk (optional)
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 0.5 cup olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to an even ½-inch thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour and salt, one with beaten eggs (and milk if using), and one with panko, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, then egg, then the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, perform a double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Heat ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). Transfer to a baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Warm the marinara sauce.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of warm sauce over each fried cutlet. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 2 minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
Pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Use a double-dip breading technique for maximum crispiness. Warm the sauce before adding to prevent soggy crust. For extra color, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet wit
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: chicken parmesan, crispy chicken, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, Italian food, family dinner, comfort food