Best Chicken Parmesan – Crispy, Savory, and Comfortingly Classic

This Best Chicken Parmesan recipe is a delicious take on the beloved Italian-American classic. Featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crisp, flavorful crust, topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish delivers comforting flavors with a lighter touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Coating – A golden, crunchy crust made with seasoned breadcrumbs for perfect texture.
Savory Marinara – Tangy tomato sauce adds a fresh, zesty layer of flavor.
Melty Cheese – A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan melts to gooey perfection.
Quick & Simple – Ready in under an hour with straightforward steps.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• ½ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about ½ inch) for uniform cooking.

2. Make the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. In another bowl, beat the egg.

3. Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

5. Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella. Bake for 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side of pasta, salad, or steamed veggies.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Protein: 38g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Even Thickness – Pounding chicken ensures it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
• Use Fresh Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality mozzarella enhance flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook chicken in batches if needed to maintain crispiness.

Why This Recipe Works

The crispy breadcrumb coating delivers satisfying texture while the juicy chicken remains tender inside. Layering fresh marinara and melty cheese adds classic, rich flavors without heaviness. This version keeps it simple, flavorful, and lighter than traditional fried versions.

This Best Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleasing, healthier take on a classic favorite. With crisp chicken, tangy sauce, and bubbly cheese, it’s a comforting dinner that’s easy to make and enjoy any night of the week.