1. What's the Difference Between Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Parmigiana?

They are the same dish ! "Parmigiana" is the Italian term , while "Parmesan" is the Americanized name .

2. What Sauce Goes on Chicken Parm?

Marinara sauce is the traditional choice, but you can also use tomato basil sauce or spicy arrabbiata sauce .

3. How Do You Get the Breading to Stick to Chicken Parmesan?

Use a three-step breading method : Flour → Egg → Breadcrumbs. Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying for better adhesion.

4. What Is Chicken Parmesan Made Of?

It includes breaded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan .

5. Why Is It Called Chicken Parm If It's Made with Mozzarella?

The term comes from "Parmigiana" , which refers to the cooking method , not the cheese.

6. Do You Put Mozzarella on Chicken Parm?

Yes! Mozzarella is the key melting cheese , while Parmesan adds extra flavor.

The 1 Best Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Description

Crispy, golden-breaded chicken cutlets smothered in rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese—this classic Chicken Parmesan is the perfect comfort food. Whether served with pasta, salad, or garlic bread, this dish is a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½ inch thickness
1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
1 ½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.

2️⃣ Bread the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip into eggs, and coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly.

3️⃣ Fry the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

4️⃣ Assemble & Bake

Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in a baking dish.
Place the fried chicken cutlets on top and spoon more marinara sauce over each.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh basil and serve with pasta, salad, or garlic bread.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
Want a healthier version? Bake instead of frying—just lightly coat the chicken with oil and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes before adding sauce and cheese.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: LUNCH
Method: Baking & Frying
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet
Calories: 480 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 40g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parm, Easy Chicken Parmesan, Baked Chicken Parmesan, Crispy Chicken Parmesan