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Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe – Easy Homemade Marinara & Mozzarella

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This crispy chicken parmesan features golden, crunchy chicken breasts topped with homemade garlicky marinara and bubbling fresh mozzarella. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing classic that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or dried oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for marinara)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped)
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Salt & pepper, to taste (for marinara)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour (seasoned with a pinch of salt), one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian herbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in eggs, and finally coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Let breaded chicken rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat 1/2 cup olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken breasts in batches, 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F). Transfer to a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  6. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken piece. Top with slices of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  7. Bake on the center rack for 8-10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Let chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot with extra marinara on the side.

Notes

For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs. Let breaded chicken rest before frying for crispier results. Use fresh mozzarella for best melt and flavor. You can prep the breaded chicken and marinara a day ahead. For gluten-free, use GF flour and panko; for dairy-free, use vegan cheese. Bake or air fry for a lighter version.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, crispy chicken, homemade marinara, mozzarella, Italian comfort food, easy dinner, family recipe, baked chicken parmesan, skillet chicken, classic Italian

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/crispy-chicken-parmesan-recipe-easy-homemade-marinara-and-mozzarella/