Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together juicy breaded chicken breasts, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of crispy chicken, savory marinara, and stringy mozzarella served over a bed of spaghetti is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and easy steps, making it a go-to meal that everyone will love.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

What makes this Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) stand out is its balance of flavors and textures, along with the simplicity of preparation. Unlike some versions that rely on pre-made sauces or frozen chicken, this recipe uses a homemade tomato sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of sweetness. The chicken is breaded with panko crumbs mixed with fresh Parmesan and parsley, delivering a crunchy and flavorful crust. Plus, frying the chicken in vegetable or avocado oil ensures a golden exterior without being greasy. Finally, the mozzarella cheese melts perfectly on top, creating that iconic cheesy layer that pulls apart as you dig in.

What’s in the Bowl

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing garlic and building the sauce base.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the tomato sauce.
28 ounces crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, rich and flavorful.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Classic herb that complements the tomato beautifully.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy note.
1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Balances acidity in the tomato sauce.
1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large): The star protein, tender and juicy.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning both the chicken and sauce.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick to the chicken.
2 eggs: Beaten, used to coat the chicken before breading.
1 cup panko bread crumbs: Provides a light and crispy crust.
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami and saltiness to the breading.
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley: Brightens the breading mixture with freshness.
1 cup vegetable oil or avocado oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the chicken.
8 ounces spaghetti, cooked: The perfect pasta bed for serving.
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Equipment & Tools

Large skillet: For frying the breaded chicken evenly.
Medium saucepan: To simmer the tomato sauce.
Mixing bowls: For dredging station – flour, egg wash, and bread crumb mixture.
Whisk or fork: To beat eggs and mix sauce ingredients.
Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
Cooking tongs or spatula: To flip the chicken without breaking the crust.
Oven-safe baking dish or skillet: For assembling and melting the cheese on the chicken.
Colander: To drain cooked spaghetti.

How to Prepare Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!)

Step 1: Make the Tomato Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute – be careful not to burn it. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently while you prepare the chicken, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced fresh parsley.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the panko mixture, covering completely and pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Pour the vegetable or avocado oil into a large skillet to a depth of about 1/4 inch. Heat over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In an oven-safe dish or skillet, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce. Place the fried chicken breasts on top, then spoon more sauce over each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously over the top.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, you can switch to the broiler for 1-2 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 8: Serve

Serve the Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) hot over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Better Choices & Swaps

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Swap out mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken instead of frying it.
Use fresh tomatoes and crush them yourself for a fresher, chunkier sauce.
Try swapping panko with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
Use whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles as a pasta alternative.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Errors to Dodge

Don’t skip pounding the chicken—this ensures even cooking and tender meat.
Avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying; cook chicken in batches if necessary.
Don’t use stale breadcrumbs as they won’t crisp up properly.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; too cool and the chicken will absorb oil and become soggy.
Don’t forget to season each layer—chicken, breading, and sauce all need seasoning.
Avoid overbaking the chicken after adding cheese to keep it juicy.

Storage Pro Tips

Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sauce gently on the stove. Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crispy. If reheating assembled Chicken Parmesan, cover loosely with foil to prevent cheese from drying out. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to pound them to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

Is it necessary to fry the chicken?

Frying gives the chicken a crispy crust that baking alone can’t replicate, but you can bake the breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes as a healthier alternative. Just spray the chicken with oil to help crisp the crust.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The tomato sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.

What’s the best cheese for Chicken Parmesan?

Mozzarella is the classic choice because it melts beautifully and has a mild, creamy flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, tangy note and is used in the breading and as a garnish.

Before You Go

Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) is a timeless dish that brings the warmth of Italian flavors right to your dinner table with minimal fuss. With fresh ingredients, simple steps, and plenty of room to customize, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests, this easy Chicken Parmesan will hit the spot every time.

This recipe is straightforward but packed with flavor — your new go-to for a hearty, satisfying meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy one of the best Chicken Parmesan (Easy Recipe!) dishes you’ve ever made. Happy cooking!