Easy Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that features crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together quickly and works perfectly for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This version of Chicken Parmesan is quick, foolproof, and deeply satisfying. The chicken turns out juicy on the inside with a golden, crispy crust on the outside. Topped with a simple tomato sauce and gooey cheese, it delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. Plus, it’s easy to pair with pasta, salad, or even a sandwich roll for a Chicken Parm sub.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
Marinara sauce
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets if needed. Season with salt and pepper.
Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with mozzarella and more Parmesan.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian Eggplant Parmesan.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Add crushed red pepper to the sauce for a spicier version.
Layer sliced fresh mozzarella for an elevated cheesy top.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
To keep the coating crisp, avoid reheating in the microwave if possible.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay juicy—just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Do I have to fry the chicken first?

Frying gives the best texture, but you can bake the breaded chicken at 425°F for 20 minutes as a lighter alternative.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can bread and fry the chicken ahead, then add sauce and cheese just before baking.

What type of marinara sauce is best?

Use a high-quality store-bought marinara or homemade for the best flavor.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?

Yes. Assemble and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to get extra crispy chicken?

Use panko breadcrumbs and don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?

Yes, but slice it thinly and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.

Is this dish spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add crushed red pepper or spicy marinara if desired.

What should I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

Serve it with pasta, garlic bread, salad, or over a hoagie roll for a sandwich.

How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Parmesan is a timeless comfort food that’s always a hit at the dinner table. With a golden crust, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, it’s everything you want in a hearty meal—made simple for weeknight cooking. Whether served over pasta or on its own, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

Easy Chicken Parmesan