If you’re craving a meal that’s both crispy and comforting, this Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe hits all the right notes. Picture golden, breaded chicken cutlets smothered in melty mozzarella and tangy marinara, baked to bubbling perfection. It’s a classic that’s easier to make at home than you might think!
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love making this Crispy Chicken Parmesan because it brings a bit of Italian comfort food right into my kitchen with almost no fuss. The crispy crust with the melty, cheesy topping always impresses everyone at the dinner table, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- Perfectly Crispy Chicken: The breading stays crunchy even after baking, giving you that satisfying texture in every bite.
- Simple Ingredients: Most are pantry staples, so you can whip this up without a special trip to the store.
- Versatile Serving Options: Delicious alongside pasta, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Before you get started, make sure to pick good-quality chicken breasts and fresh mozzarella for the best flavor and texture. I also recommend using a flavorful Italian herb blend in the breadcrumbs—it really lifts the entire dish.

- Chicken breasts: Slicing them thin ensures quick, even cooking and a tender bite.
- All-purpose flour: Creates a base layer that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick perfectly.
- Eggs: Acts as the glue between the flour and breadcrumb coating for maximum crunch.
- Olive oil: For frying the chicken to a golden, crispy crust with rich flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Provides that iconic crunchy coating; I like to use seasoned or Italian style for extra flavor.
- Parmesan cheese: Mixed with breadcrumbs and sprinkled on top for a nutty, salty bite.
- Salt and pepper: Essential to enhance every ingredient’s natural flavor.
- Italian herb blend: Thyme, oregano, basil, and rosemary add that warm, aromatic Italian touch.
- Garlic powder: Gives a subtle, savory punch to the breading.
- Mozzarella cheese: Fresh slices melt beautifully, creating that ooey-gooey topping everyone loves.
- Marinara sauce: Choose a robust, flavorful sauce to complement the cheesy chicken.
- Fresh basil: Adds a bright, herbal freshness as a final garnish.
Make It Your Way
One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe is how easy it is to tweak based on what you love or what you have on hand. Whether you want to lighten it up, add some extras, or make it gluten-free, there’s a way to make this classic dish truly your own.
- Gluten-Free Version: I swapped regular all-purpose flour and standard breadcrumbs with a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko, and honestly, you wouldn’t even notice. The herb and parmesan crust still crisps up beautifully!
- Baked Not Fried: For days when I want less fuss and oil, I bake the breaded chicken at 450°F for 25 minutes, then add my toppings and finish baking for 5 more minutes before broiling. It’s almost as crispy and just as flavorful.
- Herb Variations: Sometimes I like using fresh herbs instead of the Italian dried blend — thyme, rosemary, and basil chopped finely into the breadcrumbs brighten the flavor wonderfully.
- Cheese Swap: If mozzarella isn’t your favorite, provolone or fontina work great too. Just be sure to use a good melting cheese for that melty, gooey perfection.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Step 1: Tenderize Your Chicken Cutlets
Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or inside a large ziplock bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each piece until they reach about ½ inch thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Once done, pat the cutlets dry with paper towels — this ensures the breading sticks perfectly.
Step 2: Mix Your Flavorful Breadcrumbs
In a shallow dish, combine 1 ½ cups of breadcrumbs, ½ cup shredded parmesan, ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon pepper, 2 teaspoon Italian herb blend, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Stir everything thoroughly so every bite will be bursting with flavor and that signature parmesan crust.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Arrange three shallow dishes side-by-side: one with ½ cup all-purpose flour, one with the 3 whisked eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture you just made. This assembly line makes breading fast and less messy.
Step 4: Bread Your Chicken Cutlets
Take each cutlet and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the eggs, letting the extra drip off. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated. Repeat with every cutlet until they’re all breaded and ready.
Step 5: Brown the Chicken to Perfection
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over low to medium heat in a skillet. Add each breaded cutlet and brown for 2–3 minutes on each side until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma here is irresistible — that toasty, garlicky crust is where the magic starts!
Step 6: Layer with Cheese and Sauce, Then Bake
Transfer your browned cutlets to a large baking dish. Place a slice of mozzarella on each, then spoon 1 ½ cups marinara sauce evenly over the top. Pop the dish into your preheated 425°F oven and bake uncovered for 14 minutes. This melts the cheese and warms everything just right.
Step 7: Final Touch with Parmesan and Broil
After baking, sprinkle ⅓ cup shredded parmesan cheese over each cutlet. Set your oven to broil on high and slide the dish in for about 1 minute — watch closely as the parmesan melts and browns to a bubbly, golden crust. This step is quick but so rewarding!
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Warm
Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil over your Crispy Chicken Parmesan and serve immediately. Whether alongside pasta, a fresh Italian salad, or crusty bread, this dish is sure to delight everyone at your table.
Top Tip
Mastering the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe means paying attention to a few key details that make all the difference between good and unforgettable. Here are some tips I've picked up along the way that will help you get that perfect crispy crust and melty cheese every time.
- Even Thickness Matters: Pounding your chicken cutlets to a consistent ½ inch thickness ensures they cook evenly, preventing dry edges and undercooked centers.
- Breadcrumb Pressing Technique: Use your hands to gently press the breadcrumb mixture onto both sides of the chicken cutlets. This helps form that satisfying crispy crust that won’t flake off.
- Don’t Rush Browning: Cook your breaded cutlets over low to medium heat to achieve a golden-brown crust without burning. Patience here really pays off!
- Broil Briefly for the Perfect Finish: Sprinkle fresh parmesan cheese on top before a quick 1-minute broil to get that bubbly, lightly browned cheese that adds a wonderful texture contrast.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic finishing touch for this Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe, lending a fragrant herbal pop that brightens the dish. You might also try a sprinkle of extra shredded parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance richness. For a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes on top can be delightful.
Side Dishes
This chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Pasta in any shape – think spaghetti, penne, or bowtie – dressed lightly with olive oil or more marinara complements the flavors perfectly. For a fresher, lighter contrast, an Italian chopped salad or Tuscan artichoke salad offers crunch and brightness. Don’t forget crusty breads like country sourdough or Italian bread to soak up all that delicious sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crispy Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the crust as crisp as possible once reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken parmesan for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. To prevent sogginess, avoid freezing with sauce on top—freeze the chicken separately, then add sauce and cheese when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to warm through and revive the crispiness of the breading. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will add extra juiciness. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness, around ½ inch, for even cooking like with the breasts.
Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture will remain crispy and delicious!
Try the baked method by placing breaded chicken in a well-oiled pan and baking at 450°F for 25 minutes, then adding toppings and baking 5 more minutes before broiling. This significantly cuts down the oil used without sacrificing flavor.
Yes, you can bread and brown the chicken a few hours ahead, then refrigerate. When ready, assemble with cheese and sauce and bake according to the recipe instructions for best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a perfectly crispy chicken parmigiana topped with melty mozzarella and fragrant basil. Making this Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe at home brings all those classic Italian-American flavors into your kitchen, with the bonus of customizing it to your preference. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend dinner with loved ones, I hope this recipe becomes a beloved staple on your table. Enjoy every luscious bite!
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Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Best Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers a classic Italian-American favorite with crispy breaded chicken cutlets topped with mozzarella and marinara sauce, baked to perfection with a golden parmesan crust and fresh basil garnish. Perfect for an easy, comforting dinner that pairs well with pasta or a crisp salad.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 3 chicken breasts, sliced in half length-wise to create 6 cutlets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (can also use gluten-free flour blend or white whole wheat)
- 3 eggs, whisked
- ⅓ cup olive oil
Breadcrumbs
- 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 teaspoon Italian herb blend (thyme, oregano, basil, rosemary)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Topping
- 6 slices Mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the chicken parmesan.
- Tenderize Chicken: Place the chicken cutlets between sheets of parchment paper or in a large ziplock bag. Use a rolling pin or meat hammer to pound them until they are ½ inch thick. Remove and pat dry the cutlets with paper towels.
- Prepare Breadcrumbs: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, ½ cup parmesan, salt, pepper, Italian herb blend, and garlic powder. Mix well.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Bread the Chicken: Coat each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides thoroughly.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over low to medium heat in a skillet. Brown each breaded cutlet for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Layer and Bake: Place the browned cutlets in a large baking dish. Top each with a slice of mozzarella cheese and spoon marinara sauce over that. Bake uncovered for 14 minutes at 425°F.
- Add Parmesan and Broil: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top. Broil on high for 1 minute until the cheese is melted and browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the chicken parmesan and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lower oil option, bake the breaded chicken cutlets in a well-oiled pan at 450°F for 25 minutes, then add toppings and bake 5 more minutes before broiling.
- Serve with your favorite pasta shapes or Italian salads like Tuscan artichoke or Italian chopped salad.
- Crusty breads such as country sourdough or Italian bread accompany this dish beautifully.
- Ensure chicken cutlets are uniformly pounded for even cooking.
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg


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