Chicken Parmesan
+6 photos

Chicken Parmesan

4 servings
For the best chicken Parmesan, try Chef John's version that's pan-fried and then baked, delivering impressive results with a crispier crust than most recipes.

Ingredients

  • skinless

    boneless chicken breast halves

    4
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • eggs
    2 large
  • panko bread crumbs

    or more as needed

    1 c
  • grated parmesan cheese

    divided

    ¾ c
  • all-purpose flour

    or more if needed

    2 tbsp
  • olive oil for frying

    or as needed

    ½ c
  • prepared tomato sauce
    ½ c
  • fresh mozzarella

    cut into small cubes

    ¼ c
  • chopped fresh basil
    ¼ c
  • grated provolone cheese
    ½ c
  • olive oil
    2 tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Gather the ingredients. Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).

    Step 1
  2. 2

    Place chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic (resealable freezer bags work well) on a solid, level surface. Firmly pound chicken with the smooth side of a meat mallet to a thickness of 1/2-inch.

    Step 2
  3. 3

    Season chicken thoroughly with salt and pepper. Using a sifter or strainer; sprinkle flour over chicken breasts, evenly coating both sides

    Step 3
  4. 4

    Beat eggs in a shallow bowl and set aside. Mix bread crumbs and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl, set aside. Dip a flour-coated chicken breast in beaten eggs. Transfer breast to the bread crumb mixture, pressing crumbs into both sides. Repeat for each breast. Let chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes.

    Step 4
  5. 5

    Heat 1/2 inch olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. Cook chicken in the hot oil until golden, about 2 minutes per side. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.

    Step 5
  6. 6

    Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce. Layer each chicken breast with equal amounts of mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and provolone cheese. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over top and drizzle each with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil.

    Step 6
  7. 7

    Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is browned and bubbly and chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center, 15 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).

    Step 7
Chicken Parmesan
+6

Chicken Parmesan

45 min4 servings471 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving that perfect, crispy chicken Parmesan without the usual soggy crust? Chef John's ingenious method for chicken Parmesan delivers exactly that, pan-frying the chicken to a golden crisp before baking it to melty, cheesy perfection. This approach ensures every bite is a delightful combination of textures, making it a standout weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

What truly sets this recipe apart is the two-step cooking process: pan-frying creates an incredibly crispy, golden-brown crust, while a subsequent bake perfectly melts the cheeses and finishes cooking the chicken through. Coupled with the light, airy texture of panko bread crumbs and a trio of cheeses—Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone—this method guarantees a chicken Parmesan that's anything but bland or rubbery.

Prepare for a truly satisfying dinner experience. You'll bite into a gloriously crispy crust that gives way to tender, juicy chicken, all smothered in bright, tangy tomato sauce and a generous blanket of perfectly melted, gooey cheese. The fresh basil adds an aromatic lift, cutting through the richness for a balanced flavor profile. This homemade Chicken Parmesan proves that achieving restaurant-quality results is entirely possible right in your own kitchen, without being overly complicated.

Customization & Variations

Feel free to adjust the cheese blend to your liking; while this recipe calls for Parmesan, mozzarella, and provolone, you can easily shift the ratios or focus on one or two. For a hint of spice, stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into your prepared tomato sauce. If you adore fresh herbs, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or oregano along with the basil for an extra layer of flavor.

Serve this classic Chicken Parmesan alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a side of al dente pasta for a complete, comforting meal. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you want to impress guests with a dish that feels both familiar and elevated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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