Name: Easy Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Breast
Prep time: PT-491776H24M1S
Cook time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ cup all purpose flour; 2 eggs; ⅔ cup seasoned italian bread crumbs; ⅓ cup freshly grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, chives or rosemary; 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), pounded ¼"-thick; salt and freshly ground black pepper; ¼ cup olive oil; lemon wedges, for serving

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a beautifully crispy chicken breast smothered in warm marinara and topped with ooey-gooey melted cheese. The easy chicken Parmesan we’re about to dive into has a crust made with seasoned Italian bread crumbs and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, creating a texture that’s delightful to the bite. Each piece of chicken is golden brown, flavorful, and ready to soothe those cravings after a long day. It’s as if this dish is whispering, “Welcome home!” each time you take a bite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Breast
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Easy Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Breast

Easy Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Breast

The first time I made this dish was in college, trying to impress my friends with my newfound culinary skills. Little did I know, this simple recipe would become a staple in my collection, a go-to meal that never failed to satisfy. The blend of flavors and textures is irresistible, making it a true crowd-pleaser and an easy way to elevate a weeknight dinner. You won’t be disappointed with this crispy pan-fried chicken breast recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: In just 30 minutes, you can bring this comforting dish to the table.
Irresistible Flavor: The balance of crunchy breading, savory chicken, and rich cheese creates a symphony of taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Golden and bubbly; it’s a feast for the eyes as much as the mouth!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, it fits any occasion beautifully.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for various dietary needs, from gluten-free bread crumbs to dairy-free cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

½ cup all-purpose flour: This creates a light coating that helps the breading adhere.
2 eggs: Beaten, they help the crumbs stick more effectively to the chicken.
⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs: I recommend Progresso for convenience; it adds flavor and crunch.
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: This cheese brings depth and umami, elevating the entire dish.
¼ teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that adds warmth.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh herbs: Any combination of thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary boosts flavor.
3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds), pounded ¼” thick: They can be easily customized to your preferred portion size.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste.
¼ cup olive oil: Needed for frying, achieving that beautiful golden brown color.
Lemon wedges for serving: A squeeze of lemon just before eating enhances the flavors.

How to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Pan-Fried Chicken Breast

Set Up Your Breading Station: Arrange three large shallow bowls in a row. Place the ½ cup all-purpose flour in the first bowl, whisk the 2 eggs in the second, and combine the ⅔ cup seasoned Italian bread crumbs, ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs in the third.

Season the Chicken: Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper on the 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they’re well-seasoned. Dredge the first breast in the flour, shaking off excess flour until only a light coating remains.

Batter the Chicken: Next, dip the floured chicken breast into the egg mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated while letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, dredge the chicken in the seasoned bread crumb mixture, turning it several times to fully coat. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and repeat the process for the remaining chicken breasts.

Fry the Chicken: Heat ¼ cup olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the first side is golden brown; you’ll know it’s ready to flip when it releases easily from the pan. Flip the chicken and continue to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked through.

Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve your chicken parmesan immediately. A fresh squeeze of lemon juice over the top adds a bright, zesty flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions: You can bread the chicken up to one day in advance. Simply follow the breading steps, place the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before frying to ensure even cooking.

Freezing Instructions: If you’d like to freeze before cooking, arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper. It can be stored for up to 3 months. For cooking, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then pan-fry as directed. To freeze after cooking, ensure the chicken is completely cooled, wrap each piece individually, and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 375°F oven until heated through and crispy; avoid the microwave, as it will make the coating soggy.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until it’s heated through and the coating regains some of its original crunch. If freezing, follow the previous guidelines, and remember that the texture may slightly change, but a hot oven will help refresh those crispy edges.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the chicken during frying to prevent dryness; aim for that perfect golden crust that protects the moist meat underneath.
Ensure your chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking; thick parts can cook slowly, leaving thinner edges dry.
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder to the bread crumb mixture or using flavored olive oil when frying.
If you prefer a thicker crust, repeat the breading process after dipping in the egg.
Allowing the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying helps the coating adhere better during cooking.

There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from mastering a dish like easy chicken Parmesan. With its deliciously crisp exterior and the warm flavors of cheese and marinara, this recipe truly stands out. What I love most about it is its incredible versatility. Feel free to customize it with additional toppings like fresh basil or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch.

Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, each bite brings the comfort of home. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the cooking begin. Enjoy every moment in the kitchen and relish the delightful aroma filling your home!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add an extra layer of juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Yes, you can! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F and place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet. Spray lightly with cooking spray and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and cooked through.

What should I serve with chicken Parmesan?

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a serving of pasta tossed in marinara sauce. It’s an excellent way to round out your meal and soak up all that delicious sauce!

Can I make this vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken breasts with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms. Prepare them the same way, making sure they are well-pounded or sliced to ensure even cooking!