Crispy Homemade Chicken Parmesan
Enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Chicken Parmesan made with golden breaded chicken, a rich marinara sauce, and perfectly melted mozzarella. This easy Italian-American classic can be baked, fried, or air-fried for a delicious restaurant-quality meal at home!
Equipment
- 1 Meat Mallet To pound chicken evenly
- 3 Mixing bowls For breading station
- 1 Whisk To mix eggs for coating
- 1 Large Skillet For frying (if pan-frying)
- 1 Baking Dish For assembling and baking
- 1 Wire rack To keep cutlets crispy
- 1 Tongs For flipping chicken
- 1 Air Fryer (Optional) If using air fryer method
Ingredients
- 2 Large Chicken Breasts Cut into 4 thin cutlets
- ½ cup All-purpose flour For dredging
- 2 Large Eggs Beaten with a splash of milk
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs For the crispy coating
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs Adds extra crunch
- ½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese Mixed with breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Enhances flavor
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adds depth
- ½ tsp Black pepper To season chicken
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- 1½ cups Marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Melts perfectly
- ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese For topping
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For frying or air-frying
- 1 tbsp Fresh basil For garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets.
- Place them between parchment paper and pound to ½-inch thickness.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- In one bowl, place flour.
- In a second bowl, beat eggs with a splash of milk.
- In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs, panko, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly for a solid crust.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken (Choose a Method)
- 🔥 Pan-Fried Chicken Parmesan (Classic & Crispy)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- 🔥 Baked Chicken Parmesan (Healthier Option)
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place breaded cutlets on a greased baking sheet.
- Spray lightly with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- 🔥 Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan (Crispy & Fast)
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange cutlets in a single layer and spray lightly with oil.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
- Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Place crispy chicken cutlets on top.
- Spoon more sauce over each piece.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Cheesy & Golden
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden finish.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh basil.
- Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or salad.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, let breaded cutlets rest for 10 minutes before frying.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt.
- To store: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To reheat: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.