Name: Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken tenderloins; 2 teaspoons salt, divided; ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided; 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs; ¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano Reggiano, divided; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 3 large eggs; Olive oil, for cooking; 1½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought); 6 oz fontina cheese, shredded (about 1½ cups); 3 tablespoons fresh chopped basil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines crispy, breaded chicken with savory marinara sauce and melted cheese. This recipe from Natasha’s Kitchen offers a foolproof method to recreate this restaurant favorite at home.

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken tenderloins
2 teaspoons salt, divided
¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano Reggiano, divided
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
Olive oil, for cooking
1½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
6 oz fontina cheese, shredded (about 1½ cups)
3 tablespoons fresh chopped basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Trim any white tendons from the tenderloins. Using the palm of your hand, gently flatten each tenderloin to an even ¼-inch thickness. Season both sides with 1¼ teaspoons salt and ½ teaspoon pepper.
Set Up Breading Station: In a shallow bowl, combine panko, ¾ cup Parmigiano Reggiano, oregano, thyme, and the remaining ¾ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. In separate shallow bowls, place flour and beaten eggs.
Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded chicken on a prepared baking sheet.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a foil-lined baking sheet.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle fontina and the remaining 2 tablespoons of Parmigiano Reggiano over the center of each chicken piece, leaving the edges bare to maintain crispness.
Broil: Preheat the broiler and set the oven rack about 4 inches from the heating element. Broil chicken for 1–2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Warm the marinara sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. Spoon sauce over the cheese-topped chicken, garnish with fresh basil, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Substitute fontina with mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make the chicken Parmesan healthier?

Opt for baking the chicken instead of frying to reduce fat content. Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used. Slice them horizontally to achieve an even thickness before breading.

Is it necessary to broil the chicken?

Broiling helps melt the cheese and achieve a bubbly, golden top. Skipping this step may result in less melted cheese.

Can I freeze the breaded chicken before cooking?

Yes, breaded chicken can be frozen. Place on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I serve with chicken Parmesan?

Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, high-quality store-bought marinara sauce can be used. Enhance its flavor with fresh herbs or a pinch of sugar if desired.

How do I prevent the breading from becoming soggy?

Avoid over-saturating the chicken with sauce. Serve the sauce on the side or spoon over the top just before serving.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 8 hours before cooking.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, eggplant slices can be used as a substitute for chicken in a vegetarian version of chicken Parmesan.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, provolone or mozzarella can be used as alternatives to fontina for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please a crowd. With its crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a classic dish that’s both comforting and impressive. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

Chicken Parmesan