Chicken Parmesan Dinner is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that delivers crispy, golden chicken cutlets smothered in tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness. Served alongside spaghetti or your favorite pasta, it’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that brings the flavors of a cozy trattoria right to your table.

The beauty of Chicken Parmesan lies in its contrasting textures: the crisp breadcrumb coating gives way to tender, juicy chicken inside, while the melted cheese and savory tomato sauce create a luscious, satisfying topping. Paired with a fresh side salad and garlic bread, it makes a complete, indulgent dinner perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

  • Cooked spaghetti or pasta, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken
Pound each chicken breast to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Bread the Cutlets
Set up a dredging station: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with ¼ cup Parmesan in a third. Coat chicken first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg, and finally press into breadcrumb mixture until well coated.

3. Pan-Fry to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

4. Add Sauce & Cheese
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place fried chicken cutlets in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.

5. Bake & Serve
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot over spaghetti or alongside a crisp salad.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Perfect Texture: The crispy coating holds up beautifully under sauce and cheese.

  • Balanced Flavors: Tangy marinara, creamy mozzarella, and salty Parmesan complement each other perfectly.

  • Restaurant Quality at Home: Simple steps yield a dish that feels special.

Pro Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.

  • Don’t skip pounding the chicken—it ensures tenderness and even cooking.

  • For extra crispiness, let breaded cutlets rest for 5–10 minutes before frying.

Variations

  • Lighter Option: Bake breaded chicken at 425°F until golden before topping with sauce and cheese.

  • Extra Cheesy: Add provolone slices under the mozzarella for more depth.

  • Spicy Kick: Stir crushed red pepper into the marinara.

Make Ahead & Storage

  • Prep Ahead: Bread chicken in advance and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before frying.

  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain crispness.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan Dinner is a timeless classic—crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese—all coming together in one irresistible plate. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish promises comfort, flavor, and a little bit of indulgence in every bite.