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Close-up of crispy chicken parmesan recipe with melted cheese and marinara sauce on white plate in a modern kitchen.

Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Emily Wilson
Discover the best Chicken Parmesan Recipe with easy, classic, baked, and air fryer options. Crispy, cheesy, and perfect for any meal!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 425 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken breasts or chicken cutlets
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese preferably Parmesan Reggiano
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese fresh mozzarella recommended
  • 1 ½ cups Panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
  • ½ cup olive oil for frying and drizzling
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: almond flour for gluten-free or breadcrumb-free version

Instructions
 

Prepare the chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and herbs of your choice. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with Panko breadcrumbs.

Bread the chicken:

  • Dip each chicken breast first in flour, then in egg, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs. For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or skip breading altogether.

Fry the chicken:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels.

Add sauce and cheese:

  • Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Bake:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the chicken in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Air fryer option:

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place breaded chicken in the basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. Add sauce and cheese, then cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve with your choice of pasta or side dishes.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
  • Calories: 425 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugars: 5 g
  • Protein: 40 g
Note: Nutrition values may vary based on recipe variations and ingredient brands.
Keyword Chicken Parmesan Recipe