Authentic Chicken Parmesan Recipe: An Italian-American Favorite
Chicken Parmesan—or “Chicken Parm,” as many call it—is one of the most beloved Italian-American dishes. It’s comforting, flavorful, and has just the right balance of crispy chicken, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. In this blog, we’ll share an authentic Chicken Parmesan recipe that’s simple, clear, and easy to follow.
A Little Background on Chicken Parmesan
Although Chicken Parmesan has roots in Italian cuisine, it’s more of an Italian-American creation. It was inspired by traditional dishes like “melanzane alla parmigiana” (eggplant Parmesan), where slices of eggplant are breaded, fried, layered with sauce and cheese, and baked. Italian immigrants adapted this concept using chicken when they arrived in America and had access to a wider variety of ingredients.
Over time, Chicken Parmesan became a popular dish in restaurants and homes across the United States. Today, it’s considered a comfort food classic that combines the heartiness of Italian cooking with a bit of American flair.
What Makes Chicken Parmesan Special?
Chicken Parmesan is all about layers—thin, crispy chicken cutlets topped with a rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. The best part? Every bite has a perfect mix of flavors and textures. The crunchy breadcrumb coating pairs beautifully with the gooey cheese and tangy sauce. When served with spaghetti or a side salad, it’s a complete meal that satisfies the soul.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe!
Authentic Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
For the chicken cutlets:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded flat)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ¼ cup olive oil (for frying)
For the sauce:
– 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
For the topping:
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally or gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about ½ inch thick. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and remains tender.
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Season both sides with salt and pepper.
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Set Up the Coating Station:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
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In a third dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
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Bread the Chicken:
- Coat each piece of chicken in the flour first, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off.
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Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
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Pan-Fry the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn’t have to cook all the way through because it will finish cooking in the oven.
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Place the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the Sauce:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
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Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
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Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange the fried chicken cutlets on top of the sauce.
- Spoon more marinara sauce over each piece of chicken.
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Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the chicken.
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Bake the Chicken:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
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If you want a golden crust on the cheese, you can broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the Chicken Parmesan from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve it alongside spaghetti or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. Don’t forget crusty garlic bread for the ultimate experience!
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan
- Thin Chicken is Key: Thick chicken breasts can take longer to cook and may become chewy. Always pound your chicken thin.
- Homemade Marinara Sauce: If you have time, making marinara sauce from scratch will add an extra touch of flavor to the dish.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Using fresh mozzarella instead of pre-shredded can take your Chicken Parmesan to the next level.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The gooey cheese top is what makes this dish so irresistible!
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan is an Italian-American favorite that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. While it may seem fancy, it’s actually easy to make at home with just a few basic ingredients. The crunchy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and bubbly cheese create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So, gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and enjoy the rich flavors of authentic Chicken Parmesan in the comfort of your own kitchen. Bon appétit—or as Italians say, Buon appetito! 🍴
