Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (butterflied and halved)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Fresh salad or garlic bread (optional)
Execution
Prepare the Chicken:
Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally, creating thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Set Up a Breading Station:
Place flour in one shallow dish. In another, beat the eggs. In a third, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, and then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to ensure an even layer.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in marinara sauce, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Assemble the Chicken Parmesan:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the fried chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, ensuring they’re well covered.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and finish with grated Parmesan on top.
Bake:
Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. If you like a crispier top, broil for an additional 2 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve the Chicken Parmesan over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with extra marinara sauce on the side.
Additional tips
- For extra crispy chicken, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko adds a crunchier texture.
- Make it healthier by baking the breaded chicken breasts instead of frying. Bake them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden, then proceed with adding sauce and cheese.
- Try a gluten-free version by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes.
- Add a spicy kick by mixing a pinch of red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture or marinara sauce.
