Chicken Parmesan

Golden-brown breaded chicken breasts topped with bubbling melted mozzarella and rich red marinara sauce in a rustic baking dish, garnished with fresh basil leaves and served alongside a portion of spaghetti on elegant white plates

28 minutes

4 servings

Medium

High-ProteinComfort FoodFamily-Friendly

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups marinara sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Nutrition Facts

Per 4 servings

Calories625 kcal

Protein52 g

Carbohydrates35 g

Fat28 g

Fiber3 g

* Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation methods.

Instructions

Prepare Chicken and Breading Station

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and pound to 1/2 inch thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Set up three shallow dishes: first with seasoned flour (flour mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning), second with beaten eggs, and third with breadcrumb mixture (Italian breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese).

Pro Tip:

Pounding chicken ensures even cooking and tender results

Flattened chicken breasts on cutting board with three breading dishes arranged nearby and meat mallet visible

Bread and Pan-Fry Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook breaded chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a greased baking dish.

Pro Tip:

Don't move chicken too early - let it develop a golden crust before flipping

Golden-brown breaded chicken breasts sizzling in a large skillet with oil

Add Sauce and Cheese

Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece of chicken in the baking dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, making sure to cover the sauce completely. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tip:

Don't oversauce - you want the chicken to stay crispy underneath

Chicken breasts in baking dish topped with red marinara sauce and white mozzarella cheese ready for oven

Bake Until Bubbly and Serve

Bake in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven and let rest for 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Pro Tip:

Let rest briefly before serving to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to set slightly