When I first made Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana Recipe, I was a little nervous, but honestly, it was easier than I imagined and so worth it! There’s nothing quite like the aroma of crispy chicken topped with bubbling cheese and tangy marinara sauce filling your kitchen.

Pulling that tray out of the oven and seeing everyone’s excited faces was the best part. My family even said it was better than their favorite restaurant’s version, which, I have to admit, was a huge win! Whether it’s for a hearty dinner or a special celebration, this dish is always a hit.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and always impressive.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy when pounded evenly for even cooking.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
2 large eggs: Acts as a binder for the breadcrumbs.
1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides a light, crispy coating.
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds tangy, nutty flavor to the crust and the topping.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken.
½ cup olive oil: For frying to achieve a golden crust.
½ cup marinara sauce: Rich and tangy base for the dish.
¼ cup fresh mozzarella (cut into small cubes): Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy layer.
½ cup grated provolone cheese: Adds creaminess and extra cheesiness.
¼ cup fresh basil (chopped): Brightens and freshens the final dish.
2 tsp olive oil (for drizzling): Adds shine and helps the cheese melt perfectly.

Note: This recipe serves 4, perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Variations to Try

Switch things up with these creative adaptations:

Dairy-Free Option: Substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with plant-based cheese substitutes for a lactose-free version.
Keto-Friendly: Use a mix of almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs to keep it low-carb.
Add Some Heat: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or add red chili flakes to the marinara for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with eggplant slices for an equally satisfying vegetarian alternative.

Cooking Time You’ll Need

Here’s how long this delicious dish will take to prepare:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Must-Have Equipment

Set yourself up for success with these kitchen tools:

Meat mallet: For pounding the chicken to an even thickness.
Mixing bowls: To prep the eggs, flour, and breadcrumb mixtures.
Large skillet: Ideal for frying the chicken to golden perfection.
Oven-safe baking dish: For layering and baking the chicken Parm.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana?

Follow these straightforward steps to create this irresistible dish. Each layer of flavor is worth the effort!

Prepare the Chicken

To start, place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet. This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Lightly coat each piece with all-purpose flour, making sure it’s evenly dusted.

Coat the Chicken in Breading

Crack the eggs into a mixing bowl and whisk them until smooth. Combine the panko breadcrumbs with ½ cup of grated Parmesan in another bowl. Dip each flour-coated chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch.

Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts into the pan, working in batches if necessary. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Layer and Assemble

Preheat your oven to 450°F. Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each fried chicken breast and place them in an oven-safe baking dish. Top each portion with a blend of fresh mozzarella, provolone, and the remaining grated Parmesan. Sprinkle chopped basil on top and drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness.

Bake It To Perfection

Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serve and Savor

Once out of the oven, give the dish a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. Plate each chicken Parm piece and garnish with additional basil and Parmesan, if desired. Get ready to wow your guests or family with this beautiful and delicious meal!

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana

These little tricks make a big difference when creating this dish:

Pound the chicken evenly. This ensures all the pieces cook at the same rate and stay juicy.
Don’t overload with sauce. Too much marinara can make the crispy chicken soggy.
Use fresh Parmesan. Grating your cheese fresh gives a more robust flavor compared to pre-packaged versions.
Rest the breaded chicken. After breading, chill the chicken for 10 minutes to help the coating stick better during frying.
Work in batches. Fry the chicken pieces in small batches to maintain the oil temperature for an even golden crust.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana?

This dish is perfect with pasta, but there are plenty of other serving options. Pair it with spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, and parsley for a classic combo. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or oven-roasted vegetables. Add some garlic knots or crusty bread to make it a complete feast. Don’t forget a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing pairing!

Nutritional Information

Each serving is packed with goodness! Here’s a breakdown of the key nutritional facts:

Calories: 471
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 25g

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

If you’re making this for guests, you can fry the chicken a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, assemble it with sauce and cheese before baking.

Refrigeration

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the chicken crispy.

Freezing

This dish is easy to freeze after baking. Seal individual portions tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a preheated oven until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Here’s why this Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana will become a favorite in your home:

Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps make this an approachable recipe for any level of cook.
Crispy Perfection: The golden breadcrumb crust stays crunchy even after baking!
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Layers of mozzarella, provolone, and Parmesan make every bite heavenly.
Great for Any Occasion: It’s elegant enough for entertaining and comforting for casual dinners.
Make Once, Enjoy Twice: Leftovers taste just as good when reheated properly!

Chicken Parmesan Parmigiana is a love letter to comfort food lovers. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and bold flavors, it’s the perfect dish for every occasion. Get ready to enjoy every bite!