Golden Breaded Chicken Parmesan 😋

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or cutlets, pounded to even thickness)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking)

For the Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Optional Sides:

• Spaghetti, penne, or zucchini noodles
• Garlic bread or a side salad

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.

2. Bread the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Flour
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
   • Bowl 3: Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess.
4. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on both sides. Pat gently to help the crumbs adhere.

3. Cook the Chicken

• For Baking:

  1. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray for extra crispiness.
  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes , flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) .

• For Pan-Frying:

  1. Heat a thin layer of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side , or until golden brown and cooked through.

4. Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Remove the chicken from the oven or skillet and spoon marinara sauce evenly over the top of each piece.
2. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
3. Return the chicken to the oven (or broil) for 3–5 minutes , or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
2. Serve the chicken Parmesan over cooked pasta, with garlic bread, or alongside a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

• Pound the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for quicker, more even cooking.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: They create a crispier, lighter coating than regular breadcrumbs.
• Double Sauce: Make extra marinara sauce to serve on the side for dipping or tossing with pasta.
• Freeze for Later: Bread the chicken ahead of time, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Lighten It Up: Use part-skim mozzarella and bake instead of frying for a healthier version.

Why This Recipe Works

This Golden Breaded Chicken Parmesan delivers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors: crispy breading, tender chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey melted cheese. The breading process ensures a golden crust, while the marinara and cheese add layers of richness. Whether served as a main course or paired with your favorite sides, this dish is comfort food at its finest.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Savoring

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, feeding a crowd, or simply craving something indulgent yet comforting, this Golden Breaded Chicken Parmesan is sure to hit the spot. Its crispy exterior, cheesy topping, and bold flavors make it a standout dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. Plus, its versatility means you can customize it to suit any occasion or dietary preference.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this cheesy, golden chicken Parmesan might just inspire others to try it too! 🍗✨