When it comes to timeless dinner recipes, few dishes can compete with the charm, taste, and comfort of Classic Chicken Parmesan. Known for its golden, crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella, this Italian-American staple is a dish that satisfies both the appetite and the soul. Whether you’re preparing a romantic weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a hearty weekend feast, Chicken Parmesan is always a winning choice.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making the best Classic Chicken Parmesan at home—from the ingredients and tools you’ll need, to step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful tips, nutritional value, and expert suggestions for pairing. By the end, you’ll have not just a recipe, but a complete guide to one of the most beloved dinner recipes in the world.
Ingredients for Classic Chicken Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare a restaurant-quality Chicken Parmesan at home:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
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2 large eggs (beaten)
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1 tablespoon water
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2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned preferred, or plain with added Italian herbs)
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and black pepper (to taste)
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1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
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2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought, but high-quality recommended)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
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Cooked spaghetti or linguine (optional, for serving)
Kitchen Tools Needed
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Cutting board and sharp knife
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Meat mallet or rolling pin (to flatten chicken breasts evenly)
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Mixing bowls (for dredging station)
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Large skillet (for frying)
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Baking dish or casserole dish
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Oven (preheated to 375°F / 190°C)
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Tongs or spatula
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Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
Step-by-Step Preparation
1: Prepare the Chicken
Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. Slice each breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets, about 1/2 inch thick. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until even. This ensures faster cooking and a more tender bite.
2: Set Up the Dredging Station
1In one shallow bowl, place the flour. éIn the second, whisk eggs with water. In the third, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3: Dredge the Chicken
Coat each chicken cutlet lightly in flour, dip into the egg mixture, then coat generously with the breadcrumb mixture. Press crumbs into the chicken for maximum crunch.
4: Fry the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken cutlets for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
5: Assemble the Dish
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Place the fried chicken cutlets in a single layer. Top each cutlet with more marinara sauce and a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
7: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil leaves before serving. Pair with cooked pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for the Perfect Classic Chicken Parmesan
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Don’t Skip the Flattening – Even thickness ensures even cooking.
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Use Fresh Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and provide superior flavor.
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Crispier Cutlets – Double dredge by dipping back into the egg and breadcrumbs before frying.
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Healthier Alternative – Bake the breaded chicken instead of frying to reduce calories.
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Homemade Sauce – A homemade marinara with garlic, onions, and fresh tomatoes elevates the dish dramatically.
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Serving Suggestions – Pair with spaghetti for a classic Italian-American dinner, or serve with roasted vegetables for a lighter option.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving – 1 Chicken Breast with Sauce & Cheese)
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Calories: 540
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Protein: 45g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fat: 25g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Cholesterol: 180mg
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Fiber: 3g
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Sodium: 1100mg
(Values will vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands)
Why Classic Chicken Parmesan is the Star of Dinner Recipes
There’s a reason Classic Chicken Parmesan is one of the most loved dinner recipes worldwide. It’s comforting, versatile, and appeals to both kids and adults. Unlike trendy recipes that come and go, Chicken Parmesan has stood the test of time because it’s:
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Family-Friendly – Everyone at the table will enjoy it.
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Adaptable – Works for casual dinners, special occasions, or meal prepping.
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Balanced – Protein-rich chicken, tangy sauce, creamy cheese, and optional carbs.
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Restaurant Quality at Home – Skip the expensive Italian restaurant and make it yourself.
Serving Ideas
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With Pasta – The classic pairing. Spaghetti or linguine tossed in marinara makes a hearty meal.
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Low-Carb Option – Serve with roasted zucchini, eggplant, or a fresh Caesar salad.
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Party Style – Make mini Chicken Parmesan sliders for a fun dinner party twist.
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Meal Prep – Cook cutlets ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to eat.
Conclusion
When you think of timeless dinner recipes, Classic Chicken Parmesan deserves a place at the top of the list. It combines crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese into a dish that’s both indulgent and heartwarming. With this recipe, you can bring restaurant-quality flavor right into your home kitchen.
Whether you’re hosting guests, feeding family, or simply treating yourself, this Chicken Parmesan recipe is guaranteed to deliver comfort and satisfaction every time.
So, next time you’re wondering what to cook for dinner, skip the takeout menus and choose this homemade favorite—it’s the ultimate comfort food classic.
