Name: Best Chicken Parm Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Best Chicken Parm—crispy, juicy chicken coated in golden breadcrumbs, smothered in zesty marinara, and blanketed under a melty layer of mozzarella. The moment you pull it from the oven, the aroma alone will have everyone flocking to your kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a busy crew, this classic Italian-American favorite is guaranteed to be a smash hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the reasons I adore the Best Chicken Parm is how effortless the ingredients list is, yet every bite bursts with flavor and coziness. A few pantry staples and fresh components make all the difference, each one doing its job to perfection.

Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The heart of this classic—choose pieces that are even in thickness for uniform cooking.
All-purpose flour: Creates a crucial first layer that helps everything cling to the chicken, keeping it juicy.
Large eggs (beaten): Acts like glue, ensuring the flavorful breadcrumbs stick beautifully to each piece.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: Packed with herbs and spices, these add crunch and a kick of flavor.
Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade): For that tangy, rich tomato base that ties it all together, pick a sauce you love.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty, cheesy crown that makes every forkful irresistible and gooey.
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): Adding vibrant color and a fresh finish, basil turns your Best Chicken Parm into a restaurant-worthy dish.

How to Make Best Chicken Parm

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a perfectly cooked, bubbly finish. Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze. It’s all about getting things ready so everything flows smoothly.

Step 2: Season and Set Up the Dredging Station

Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper to build those foundational flavors right from the start. Then, create a simple assembly line: one dish with flour, another with the beaten eggs, and a third full of seasoned Italian breadcrumbs. This classic breading station guarantees every bite has that signature crunch of the Best Chicken Parm.

Step 3: Bread Each Chicken Breast

Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the flour (shake off any extra). Next, dunk it in the eggs so it’s fully coated, then press it into the breadcrumbs for a hearty, flavorful crust. Go ahead—use your hands and get in there!

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium-high and add the breaded chicken. Fry each piece for about 4 minutes per side, just until they’re golden brown and crisp. This extra step makes all the difference for that crunchy outside and juicy inside—truly a defining moment for the Best Chicken Parm!

Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Arrange your golden chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour a generous helping of marinara sauce over each piece, then pile on the shredded mozzarella. Don’t be shy with the cheese—the best Chicken Parm always has a gooey, melty topping.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling

Bake in the hot oven for about 15 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gloriously golden-brown. When it’s done, the kitchen will be filled with an irresistible aroma—you’ll know you’re about to dig into the Best Chicken Parm ever!

How to Serve Best Chicken Parm

Garnishes

A flurry of fresh basil leaves over the top before serving takes your Best Chicken Parm from cozy to elegant. If you like, a hint of grated Parmesan or a crack of black pepper can bring even more flavor and color to your plate.

Side Dishes

The Best Chicken Parm is beautifully versatile, so pair it with a tangle of spaghetti, a crisp Caesar salad, or simple roasted veggies. Crusty garlic bread scooped through the marinara is honestly non-negotiable in my world—it’s perfect for soaking up all those saucy, cheesy bits!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, slice the chicken and layer it into toasted ciabatta for the ultimate chicken parm sandwich, or serve it family-style and let everyone dig in straight from the baking dish. Mini portions also work wonderfully as party appetizers, bringing the Best Chicken Parm flair to any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store any remaining Best Chicken Parm in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld, making day-after bites almost as dreamy as when it’s fresh.

Freezing

If you want to save Best Chicken Parm for later, assemble but don’t bake it—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.

Reheating

For ultimate gooeyness, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly again. The microwave works in a pinch, but oven reheating keeps the breading crisp—just another secret to preserving that Best Chicken Parm magic.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Best Chicken Parm?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a tasty, juicier alternative. Just be sure to pound them for even thickness, and bread and cook as directed for a new take on Best Chicken Parm.

What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

Any quality store-bought or homemade marinara will shine. Pick one you love—some go classic and herby, others opt for a spicier kick. Great sauce is at the heart of every Best Chicken Parm recipe.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

It’s easy! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. The result is still that crisp, mouthwatering crust that defines the Best Chicken Parm experience.

Should I pound the chicken breasts before breading?

For even cooking and juicier results, pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness is a top chef trick. It helps every slice of Best Chicken Parm cook through perfectly and stay tender.

Can I prepare Best Chicken Parm in advance?

Yes! You can bread and fry the chicken ahead of time, then assemble with sauce and cheese just before baking. This makes the Best Chicken Parm an easy, stress-free option for entertaining or weeknight meals.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Best Chicken Parm, you’ll understand why it’s my not-so-secret weeknight weapon and the star of countless family celebrations. If you’re ready for golden edges, gooey cheese, and that luscious tomato sauce, get your apron on—your kitchen is about to smell divine!

Best Chicken Parm Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 26 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Chicken Parmesan recipe. Crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese – a classic favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Parm Ingredients:

3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs (beaten)
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Season Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
Bread Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the flour, then into the eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each piece of chicken until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side.
Assemble: Place fried chicken in the prepared baking dish, pour marinara sauce over each piece, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Frying
Cuisine: Italian