Description
This Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a crispier crust and less sauce than traditional versions, combining golden-fried chicken breasts with layers of fresh mozzarella, basil, provolone, and Parmesan cheese, baked to bubbly perfection for a delicious Italian-American classic.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs, or more as needed
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, or more if needed
- ½ cup olive oil for frying, or as needed
Toppings and Sauce
- ½ cup prepared tomato sauce
- ¼ cup fresh mozzarella, cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- ½ cup freshly grated provolone cheese
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic and pound to ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Season and Flour: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Evenly coat both sides with flour using a sifter or strainer.
- Bread the Chicken: Beat eggs in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix panko bread crumbs with ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Dip each floured chicken breast into eggs, then press into the bread crumb mixture, coating both sides. Let rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Fry Chicken: Heat ½ inch of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry chicken in batches for about 2 minutes per side until golden. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, then layer with mozzarella, basil, provolone, and sprinkle remaining Parmesan. Drizzle each with ½ teaspoon olive oil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is browned and bubbly and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality prepared tomato sauce for the best flavor.
- You can substitute fresh basil with pesto or dried Italian herbs, or omit it if preferred.
- Letting the breaded chicken rest before frying helps the coating adhere better.
- Ensure not to overcrowd the skillet while frying to maintain a crisp crust.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
