How to Make Chicken Parmigiana - A Crispy, Cheesy Classic

Chicken Parmigiana—affectionately known as "Chicken Parm"—is one of the most beloved dishes in Italian-American cuisine. With its crispy golden chicken cutlets, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this comforting classic is a favorite for family dinners, date nights, or impressing guests.

Whether you're new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this step-by-step guide will show you how to make chicken parmigiana that’s restaurant-quality—right from your own kitchen.

🛒 Ingredients

For the chicken:

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise)

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs (beaten)

  • 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Olive oil (for pan-frying)

Chicken Parmigiana recipe - Scott Biffin

For the sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2–3 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

For assembly:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil leaves (optional)

  • Cooked pasta or salad (for serving)

🔪 Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Flatten the Chicken

  • Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets.

  • Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a mallet to an even thickness (about ½ inch).

  • Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

  • Set up a breading station with 3 shallow dishes: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan in the third.

  • Dredge each chicken piece in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil (about ¼ inch deep) in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Fry the chicken cutlets 2–3 minutes per side or until golden and crispy.

  • Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

  • In a saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).

  • Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar (if using), and salt/pepper to taste.

  • Simmer for 10–15 minutes. Add fresh basil if desired.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • In a baking dish, spoon a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.

  • Arrange the fried chicken cutlets on top.

  • Spoon more sauce over each cutlet, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.

  • Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with fresh basil.

  • Serve hot with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

🍽 Pro Tips

  • Make it extra crispy: Chill breaded chicken cutlets for 15 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere.

  • Add flavor: Mix crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chopped herbs into the sauce for an extra kick.

  • Shortcut option: Use store-bought marinara sauce if you’re in a hurry—just make sure it’s good quality!

🧡 Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmigiana is the ultimate comfort food: crunchy, saucy, cheesy, and satisfying. Once you try this homemade version, you'll never go back to the frozen kind. It’s simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, Chicken Parm is a timeless dish that brings people together.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out! 🍽️

— Chef Scott Biffin

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