The Ultimate Chicken Parmesan—Crispy, Cheesy, and Absolutely Irresistible!
If you’ve ever been disappointed by soggy, sauce-drenched Chicken Parmesan, this recipe is about to change everything! Imagine juicy, golden-crusted chicken, layered with a perfect balance of rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and fresh basil—all without sacrificing that crisp, crunchy coating.
This restaurant-quality Chicken Parmesan is quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, this foolproof recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to the soggy versions again!
Let’s get cooking!
Crispy & Delicious Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (more if needed)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (more if needed)
- ½ cup olive oil (for frying)
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cubed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup grated provolone cheese
- 2 tsp olive oil
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place chicken breasts between two plastic sheets and pound to ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Lightly coat each breast with sifted flour for a dry base.
Coat the Chicken
- Beat eggs in a shallow bowl.
- In another bowl, mix panko bread crumbs and ½ cup Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each floured chicken breast in eggs, then press into breadcrumb mixture.
- Let coated chicken rest for 10-15 minutes to help the breading adhere.
Fry Until Golden
- Heat ½ inch olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Fry chicken for 2 minutes per side, until golden brown. (It will finish cooking in the oven.)
Assemble & Bake
- Place chicken in a baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tbsp tomato sauce—just enough for flavor without making it soggy.
- Add mozzarella, provolone, fresh basil, and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan over the top.
- Drizzle ½ tsp olive oil on each.
Bake & Serve
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Nutrition
For Chicken Parmesan
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, and pounded to an even ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Salt and Pepper – To season the chicken before breading.
- All-Purpose Flour – Lightly coats the chicken to help the breading stick.
- Eggs – Helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken for a crispy coating.
- Panko Breadcrumbs – Provides extra crunch and a golden crust.
- Parmesan Cheese – Mixed into the breadcrumbs for extra flavor and crispiness.
- Olive Oil – For frying the breaded chicken to a golden brown.
For the Sauce & Toppings
- Tomato Sauce – A small amount on top of the chicken to add flavor without making it soggy.
- Fresh Mozzarella – Cubed and melted on top for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Provolone Cheese – Adds a slightly tangy, melty layer of cheese.
- Fresh Basil – For a touch of freshness and flavor.
- Olive Oil – Drizzled over the top before baking to enhance the texture and taste.
Chef’s Tips
✔ Pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
✔ Don’t overdo the sauce—serve extra on the side if needed.
✔ Let the breading set before frying for a crispier texture.
✔ Use high-quality tomato sauce for the best flavor.
✔ Preheat the oven fully so the cheese melts beautifully without overcooking the chicken.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy, cheesy, and flavorful Chicken Parmesan—without the sogginess!