Cheesy Crispy Chicken Parmesan (Printer-Friendly Version)
Crisp chicken, bubbling cheese, tangy marinara, and golden crust bring comfort and joy to hearty dinners.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Main Components
01 -
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make 4 cutlets
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
2 large eggs
04 -
1 1/4 cups panko breadcrumbs
05 -
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
06 -
2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
07 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
11 -
1 1/2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
12 -
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
13 -
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (for garnish)
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 425°F to ensure optimal cheese melting and even baking.
02 -
Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, another with eggs whisked with salt and pepper, and a third with combined panko, Italian breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan, and parsley.
03 -
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg mixture to evenly coat, then press firmly into breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly covered.
04 -
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering. Fry cutlets in batches for 4 minutes per side, until golden and crisp but not fully cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towels to drain.
05 -
Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange fried chicken cutlets over the sauce. Top each with remaining marinara, mozzarella, and the extra Parmesan.
06 -
Bake for 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden, and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
07 -
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Scatter basil over the top and serve hot, ideally over pasta or with crusty bread.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
For maximum crunch, use a blend of panko and Italian breadcrumbs, and allow chicken to rest after frying before baking.
02 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
03 -
To make gluten free, substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs; for dairy free, use plant-based cheese alternatives.