Classic Chicken Parmesan

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

Equipment

• Meat mallet
• Three shallow bowls (for breading station)
• Large skillet
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Instant-read thermometer (recommended)

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (Panko works beautifully)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Topping

• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality jarred)
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for finishing)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken (Time: 10 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound each breast to an even ¼-inch thickness. This ensures quick, uniform cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels—moisture prevents proper breading adhesion.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station (Time: 5 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Arrange three shallow bowls in a row:
2. Flour bowl: Combine flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Egg bowl: Whisk eggs with milk until smooth.
4. Breadcrumb bowl: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken (Time: 8 minutes | Intensity: Medium)

1. Working one piece at a time, dredge chicken in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg mixture, then press firmly into breadcrumbs. Coat both sides evenly. Place breaded cutlets on a wire rack and rest for 5 minutes—this helps the coating set and prevents it from falling off during frying.

Step 4: Preheat Oven and Fry (Time: 8 minutes | Intensity: High)

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry cutlets 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish (Time: 4 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce across the bottom of a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Arrange chicken cutlets on top. Spoon remaining sauce over each cutlet, then top generously with sliced mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Step 6: Bake and Broil (Time: 12 minutes | Intensity: Medium)

1. Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden finish, switch to broil on high for 1-2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) .

Step 7: Rest and Serve (Time: 3 minutes | Intensity: Low)

1. Remove from oven and rest 3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley. Serve immediately alongside spaghetti, a green salad, or crusty garlic bread.

Nutrition

Calories: 620 kcal · Protein: 48 g · Fat: 30 g · Carbohydrates: 38 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 11 g · Fiber: 3 g · Sugar: 6 g · Sodium: 1,180 mg