This Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate Italian comfort food—crispy golden chicken cutlets layered with rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and savory parmesan cheese. Baked until bubbly and served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti, this classic dish delivers the perfect combination of crunch, cheese, and bold Italian flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy golden chicken with a crunchy coating
Loaded with melted mozzarella and parmesan
Rich, flavorful tomato sauce
Classic restaurant-quality Italian dinner
Perfect for family meals and special occasions
Ingredients
Chicken
2 large chicken breasts, halved and pounded thin
1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 eggs, beaten
3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Sauce & Cheese
2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Pasta
8 oz spaghetti
Salt, for pasta water
Garnish
Fresh basil leaves
Extra parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken piece into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Fry Until Golden
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to a baking dish.
- Add Sauce & Cheese
Spoon tomato sauce over each chicken cutlet.
Top generously with mozzarella cheese and additional parmesan cheese.
- Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Cook the Spaghetti
While the chicken bakes, cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
Drain and toss with a small amount of olive oil.
- Serve
Place spaghetti on serving plates.
Top with Chicken Parmesan and extra tomato sauce if desired.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Tips & Variations
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness
Add provolone cheese for extra flavor
Serve on a toasted sandwich roll for Chicken Parmesan subs
Use homemade marinara sauce for a richer taste
Pair with a simple green salad for balance
What to Serve With Chicken Parmesan
Garlic bread
Caesar salad
Roasted broccoli
Italian antipasto salad
Sautéed green beans
Quick Info
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian-American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes! Bake breaded chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes before adding the sauce and cheese.
What’s the best mozzarella to use?
Low-moisture mozzarella melts beautifully, but fresh mozzarella provides a richer flavor.
Can I make Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Freeze after baking and reheat in the oven until hot.
