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Chicken Parmesan Recipe (Best EVER!)

Chicken Parmesan Recipe (Best EVER!)

This restaurant-quality chicken Parmesan features a crispy panko crust, homemade marinara sauce, and a perfect blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The recipe uses a three-step breading process for extra crispy results and simmers fresh basil and garlic for authentic Italian flavor. It's a comforting family-friendly dish that works beautifully for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 large sprigs basil
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 c. panko bread crumbs
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • 2 c. finely grated Parmesan, divided
  • 3/4 c. all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 6 (1/4-inch thick) boneless, skinless chicken cutlets (about 1 1/2 lb. total)
  • 1 c. shredded mozzarella
  • 1 c. vegetable or canola oil
  • Chopped fresh basil, for serving

Equipment

  • saucepan
  • large skillet
  • Baking dish
  • shallow bowls
  • whisk

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Make marinara sauce: Heat olive oil in saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in crushed tomatoes, add basil sprigs, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  2. Set up breading station: Combine panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, and 1 cup Parmesan in one bowl. Place flour in second bowl. Whisk eggs in third bowl.
  3. Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Working one at a time, dredge in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg mixture, then press firmly into panko-Parmesan mixture to coat evenly.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in large skillet over medium-high heat until hot (350-375°F). Cook chicken cutlets 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F. Spread thin layer of marinara in baking dish. Arrange fried chicken over sauce, spoon more sauce over chicken, then top with remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for extra browning. Sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

Notes

For crispiest results, ensure oil is properly heated before frying. Let excess egg drip off before breading. Can bread chicken and make sauce ahead of time. Serve over spaghetti or with salad.