Dinner

Quick and Easy Chicken Parmesan Recipe

ByMariam Harutyunyan November 10, 2025November 10, 2025

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved comfort food that combines crispy breaded chicken with savory marinara and melted cheese. This quick and easy version is perfect for a weeknight dinner, delivering all the classic flavors without the fuss.

The image shows a white oval plate with two pieces of chicken parmesan. Each piece of chicken has three layers: the bottom layer is golden-brown, crispy fried chicken, topped with a bright red marinara sauce, and finished with a melted, golden, bubbly cheese layer on top. The chicken pieces are sprinkled with grated white cheese and chopped green parsley, adding texture and color contrast. On the right side of the plate, there is a fork and spoon with white handles resting on a light brown cloth. In the background, there is a wooden cutting board with scattered parsley and a knife with a wooden handle, all set on a white marbled surface. To the lower left, partially visible, is a white pan filled with plain spaghetti topped with herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 breasts, pounded thin)
1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 eggs

1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs (or combine 1/2 cup regular breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning)

2/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnishing)
Cooking spray of choice
1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnishing)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Place them between sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 3: Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk until combined to make an egg wash.
Step 4: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Italian breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Dip each chicken breast first in the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat until both breasts are fully coated.
Step 6: Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
Step 7: Bake the chicken in the oven for 15 minutes.

Step 8: While the chicken bakes, line a separate baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the marinara sauce evenly on top.
Step 9: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce.
Step 10: Place the baking sheet with the sauce and cheese into the oven alongside the chicken. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts. For a golden top, broil for 1 minute at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 11: Remove both trays from the oven. Transfer the chicken breasts to plates, spoon the marinara and melted cheese over them, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Step 12: Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious chicken Parmesan!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano to the breadcrumb mixture.

Use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamier texture.
Try using crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Pair with spaghetti or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven until warmed through to maintain the chicken’s crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the breading crispy.

How to Serve

The dish features a white speckled plate with two main layers of food: on the left side, crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken cutlets topped with thick, melted mozzarella cheese that is stretchy and slightly browned, all covered with a bright red chunky tomato sauce sprinkled with small bits of chopped parsley and grated white cheese; on the right side, a twirl of light yellow spaghetti mixed with finely chopped onions and more parsley, lightly coated with oil or butter, contrasting with the saucy chicken. The plate is set on a textured beige cloth on top of a white marbled surface, with a fork and knife with wooden handles resting on the left side of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Pound them to an even thickness and adjust baking time as needed since thighs may cook faster or slower depending on size.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. The sauce and cheese topping are best added just before baking to keep them fresh and flavorful.