Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana)

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crispy slice of chicken, layered with rich marinara sauce and gooey, melted cheese. That’s the magic of Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana). This classic Italian-American dish has won hearts around the world, and for good reason. The combination of crunchy breading, savory chicken, and luscious cheese creates a meal that is both comforting and utterly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) deserves a spot in your recipe collection for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying, with each bite offering a delightful crunch followed by the comforting flavors of cheese and tomato. Second, it’s versatile! You can serve it over pasta, with a fresh salad, or even in a sandwich. Lastly, this dish is a wonderful way to elevate your weeknight meals into something special. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen.

What Goes In

To create this Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana), you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large eggs – these will help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced – for a fragrant kick.
• 2 tablespoons parsley, fresh, chopped – adds a burst of freshness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – to season the chicken.
• 3 large chicken breasts – halved horizontally to make 6 fillets, providing the perfect base.
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – for an extra crispy texture.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or golden) – for added flavor and crunch.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, fresh grated – the star of the show, adding a nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the garlic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – for depth of flavor.
• 1/2 cup olive oil – for frying, ensuring a golden crust.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for the marinara sauce.
• 1 large onion, chopped – for a sweet base in the sauce.
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced – more garlic equals more flavor!
• 14 ounces tomato puree (Passata) – the heart of the marinara.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – to taste in the sauce.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – for a touch of herbal goodness.
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional) – to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded – for that melty layer on top.
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, fresh shredded – to sprinkle on top for extra flavor.
• 2 tablespoons basil or parsley, fresh, chopped – for garnishing.

Kitchen Gear Checklist

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen gear:

• Cutting board – perfect for slicing the chicken and veggies.
• Chef’s knife – for easy chopping.
• Mixing bowls – to mix the breadcrumbs and eggs.
• Skillet or frying pan – for frying the chicken to crispy perfection.
• Oven-safe baking dish – to finish cooking the chicken in the oven.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – to pound the chicken fillets evenly.
• Spatula or tongs – for flipping the chicken while frying.

Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) Cooking Guide

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts horizontally to create 6 fillets. If they are thick, pound them using a meat mallet until they are about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tenderness.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the two large eggs, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of Italian breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken fillet first into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to ensure it adheres well.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1/2 cup of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken fillets (you may need to do this in batches). Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Make the Marinara Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add 2 teaspoons of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in 14 ounces of tomato puree, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, and 1 teaspoon of sugar if using. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In an oven-safe baking dish, spread a layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the fried chicken fillets on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over each piece. Top with sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with 1/3 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake

Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) with pasta, a fresh salad, or crusty bread!

Health-Conscious Tweaks

If you’re looking to lighten up your Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana), consider these options:

• Swap Panko breadcrumbs for whole wheat breadcrumbs to increase fiber.
• Use air-frying methods instead of deep-frying to reduce oil use.
• Opt for low-fat mozzarella to cut down on calories.
• Increase vegetables in the marinara sauce by adding bell peppers or spinach.

Notes on Ingredients

When selecting your ingredients for Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana), freshness is key. Choose fresh herbs and high-quality cheese for the best flavor. For the chicken, organic or free-range options can provide a tastier and healthier choice. The type of breadcrumbs can also affect texture; Panko gives a crunchier finish, while Italian breadcrumbs add more flavor.

Save It for Later

This Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bake just before serving for a quick weeknight dinner. Leftovers can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven for the best texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I freeze Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana)?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer, but add extra time to the cooking process.

What can I serve with Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana)?

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer a juicy alternative and can be used in the same way as chicken breasts in this recipe.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your sauces are gluten-free as well.

Before You Go

Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Parmigiana) is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. With a few simple steps and ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to prepare. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this mouthwatering classic. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!