Easy Homemade Chicken Parmesan

“Learn how to make the best homemade Chicken Parmesan recipe with crispy, golden breaded chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and a delicious mix of melted cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone. This easy Chicken Parmesan recipe includes tips for perfect breading, frying, and baking techniques to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful. Perfect for a classic Italian dinner, this Chicken Parm pairs well with pasta or salad and is sure to become a family favorite. Discover simple variations, serving suggestions, and FAQs to make your Chicken Parmesan the star of any meal!”

Ingredients

• 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs (more if needed)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (more if needed)
• 1 cup olive oil for frying
• ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
• ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
• ½ cup grated provolone cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Pound them gently with a meat mallet until they are about ½ inch thick. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Prepare three shallow dishes:
   • Dish 1: Add the flour for dusting.
   • Dish 2: Beat the eggs.
   • Dish 3: Combine the panko breadcrumbs with ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Dust each chicken breast lightly in the flour, shake off the excess, dip them in the beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly in the panko-Parmesan mixture.
5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until a breadcrumb sizzles when dropped in. Fry each breaded chicken breast until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
6. Spoon the tomato sauce over the fried chicken. Sprinkle with chopped basil, then layer with provolone cheese, mozzarella, and finally a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
7. Drizzle with the tablespoon of olive oil and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

---

Tips

• Flatten Evenly: Ensuring the chicken is an even thickness helps it cook uniformly.
• Bread Crumbs Tip: Panko adds extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too.
• Oil Temperature: If the oil is too cool, the chicken may get greasy instead of crispy. Test it with a breadcrumb to check the heat.

Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Options: Swap provolone for gouda or use a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Sauce Choices: Substitute the tomato sauce with marinara for a richer flavor.
• Baking Method: For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying before adding the sauce and cheese.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bread the chicken and fry it in advance. Refrigerate, then bake with sauce and cheese when ready.

Q: What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?
A: It pairs well with pasta, a crisp salad, or garlic bread.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep it crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of spaghetti or with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal. It’s also delicious served as a sandwich with a toasted hoagie roll!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Chicken Parmesan combines crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and savory tomato sauce in one delightful dish. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. With its classic flavors and irresistible texture, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends!