The first time I made crispy Parmesan crusted chicken was for a Friday dinner when I wanted something easy but a little indulgent and I had some breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and chicken breasts waiting in the fridge. I coated the chicken, baked it until golden, and topped it with a quick homemade sauce and melty cheese. The result was so good that it instantly became a family favorite.

Now, this dish is on constant rotation in my kitchen because it brings together the crunch of a perfectly golden crust with the richness of melted cheese and the tang of marinara. It feels like comfort food with a restaurant touch, and it’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Chicken breasts – Sliced or pounded thin so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and saltiness to the crust.
Breadcrumbs – Create the crispy coating we all love.
Eggs – Help the coating stick and give structure.
Italian seasoning – Adds a savory herb flavor to the breading.
Marinara sauce – Brings moisture and a tangy, rich finish.
Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken.
Salt and pepper – For balanced seasoning.
Olive oil – For pan-frying and achieving that golden crust.
Fresh basil – Garnish that adds freshness and color.

Tools You’ll Need

Baking dish – To finish the chicken under the broiler or in the oven.
Skillet – For pan-frying the crust to a crispy finish.
Mixing bowls – For setting up a breading station.
Tongs – For dipping and flipping without a mess.
Whisk – To beat the eggs smooth.
Cutting board and knife – For prepping chicken and garnishes.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness for faster and more even cooking then I season it lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2:

In one bowl, I beat the eggs and in another, I mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3:

I dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well.

Step 4:

I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until the coating is golden and crispy then I transfer it to a baking dish.

Step 5:

I spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6:

I place the dish in a preheated oven at 400°F or under the broiler just long enough to melt the cheese and heat everything through.

Step 7:

I garnish with freshly chopped basil and serve hot.

Tips

For extra crispy texture, I sometimes use panko breadcrumbs. You can prep the chicken ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. And if you’re short on time, jarred marinara works great, but I love using a quick homemade version when I can.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this chicken with spaghetti or garlic mashed potatoes. It’s also delicious on its own with a fresh salad or in a sandwich roll with extra marinara and mozzarella for a hearty chicken Parm sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake this crispy Parmesan crusted chicken instead of frying?

Yes, place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.

What’s the best cheese for topping?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also use provolone or a mix of Italian cheeses.

Can I freeze Parmesan crusted chicken?

Absolutely. Just cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in the oven to keep it crispy.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this crispy Parmesan crusted chicken soon because it’s one of those recipes that brings comfort, crunch, and flavor all in one. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table too.

Happy Cooking!