Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella

Few dishes capture the heart and soul of Italian-American comfort food quite like Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella. With its golden, crispy breaded chicken cutlets, rich tomato marinara sauce, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this classic meal is pure comfort on a plate.

It’s a dish that brings people together — whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a romantic date night, or a celebration meal. The combination of crispiness, cheesiness, and savory tomato sauce makes every bite utterly irresistible. Paired with spaghetti or garlic bread, it’s a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Chicken Parmesan because it strikes the perfect balance between texture and flavor. The crispy crust of the chicken cutlets contrasts beautifully with the gooey melted cheese and the rich, tangy marinara sauce. Every bite feels indulgent yet balanced.

This version also uses simple, fresh ingredients and a few key techniques — like double breading and oven finishing — to ensure perfect crispiness that stays intact even under the sauce and cheese. It’s an all-time favorite in my kitchen because it’s comforting, classic, and crowd-pleasing every single time.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your home kitchen. It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for anyone who loves Italian cuisine. The process of frying, saucing, and baking may sound elaborate, but once you try it, you’ll see how simple and rewarding it really is.

Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this Chicken Parmesan makes a stunning centerpiece — golden, bubbling, and full of flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 520 per serving

Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course / Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally to make 4 cutlets)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk or water
• 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (or panko + Italian seasoning)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Olive oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

For Topping:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.
   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
   • Place flour in one shallow dish.
   • In another, whisk together eggs and milk.
   • In a third, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
   • Dip into the egg mixture, then coat fully in breadcrumbs.
   • Press lightly to help the coating adhere.
4. Fry the Chicken:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
   • Fry each cutlet for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
   • Transfer to paper towels to drain.
5. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
   • In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
   • Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
   • Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
6. Assemble and Bake:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
   • Place the fried chicken cutlets in the dish.
   • Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
   • Bake uncovered for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Slice and season the chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the breading stations (flour, egg, breadcrumb mixture).
Step 3: Bread the chicken cutlets evenly.
Step 4: Fry until golden brown on both sides.
Step 5: Make a simple marinara sauce with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs.
Step 6: Assemble chicken in a baking dish, top with sauce and cheese.
Step 7: Bake until melted and bubbling.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Chicken Parmesan hot, right out of the oven, with:

• Spaghetti or fettuccine pasta tossed with extra marinara sauce.
• Garlic bread for soaking up the extra sauce.
• A fresh green salad for balance.
• A sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan for the perfect finish.

For an elegant presentation, serve each chicken cutlet over a bed of sauced pasta with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves.

Recipe Tips

• Pound chicken evenly: It ensures even cooking and perfect crispness.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Don’t overload with sauce — just enough to cover lightly, so the crust stays crisp.
• Let it rest: After baking, rest for 2 minutes before serving to let flavors settle.
• Make it lighter: Bake instead of fry for a healthier version.

Variations

1. Baked Chicken Parmesan: Skip frying; bake breaded cutlets at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes before topping with sauce and cheese.
2. Eggplant Parmesan: Substitute sliced eggplant for chicken for a vegetarian option.
3. Spicy Chicken Parm: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara.
4. Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Serve in a toasted hoagie roll with mozzarella and extra sauce.
5. Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour and skip breadcrumbs for a keto-friendly twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze assembled but unbaked chicken Parmesan (without fresh basil) for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Tip: Freeze chicken cutlets separately from sauce and cheese for best texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for flattening chicken)
• 3 shallow bowls for breading
• Large skillet
• Baking dish
• Tongs or spatula

Conclusion

Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Mozzarella is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. With its crispy breaded chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and melty cheese topping, this dish delivers everything you want in a hearty Italian meal — texture, richness, and warmth.

It’s an unforgettable recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. Serve it with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a crisp salad, and you’ll have a plate of Italian perfection that everyone will love.