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Crispy Chicken Parmesan Recipe Easy Homemade Marinara and Mozzarella

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A quick and easy crispy chicken parmesan recipe featuring a golden crunchy crust, homemade marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese. Perfect for cozy dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz / 170 g each), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for substitution)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten, room temperature
  • 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs (fresh or Panko preferred)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for marinara)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano if possible)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
  • ¼ cup fresh grated Parmesan, for topping
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound to about ½-inch (1.25 cm) thickness for even cooking. Set aside.
  2. In three shallow dishes, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper, the beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese.
  3. Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, coating fully, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, covering all sides. Place breaded chicken on a plate and let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in crushed tomatoes, add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C). Fry chicken breasts 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  6. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in an oven-safe dish. Arrange fried chicken breasts on top, spoon more sauce over each, then layer with fresh mozzarella slices and sprinkle with additional Parmesan.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and starting to brown. Optionally broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden top, watching carefully.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or salad.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs for better breading adhesion. Maintain oil temperature around 350°F to avoid greasy or burnt crust. Let breaded chicken rest before frying to help coating stick. Fresh Panko breadcrumbs improve crunch. Broil carefully for a golden cheese top. For gluten-free, substitute flours and breadcrumbs accordingly. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, crispy chicken, homemade marinara, mozzarella, easy dinner, Italian recipe, breaded chicken, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-chicken-parmesan-recipe-easy-homemade-marinara-and-mozzarella/