Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight is a favorite in our household, especially during Sunday family dinners. The first time I made this dish was on a chilly autumn evening, with the leaves rustling outside the window and the aroma of marinara and melting cheese filling our cozy kitchen. I remember my kids sitting at the table, eagerly waiting, their little faces lighting up as I pulled the bubbling dish out of the oven. It was love at first bite, and it quickly became a staple in our meal rotation.
What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity and the way it brings everyone together. Even though it’s easy to make, it feels special enough for an occasion. The crispy chicken, perfectly golden and covered in layers of rich marinara and gooey cheese, is hard to resist. It reminds me of those classic Italian dinners, where every bite is comfort and joy.
The process is straightforward, and even a novice cook can impress with this dish. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it slightly, adding a pinch more seasoning here and there, but the heart of the recipe remains the same. The secret lies in the crispiness of the chicken, achieved by a quick fry before baking—a step that shouldn’t be skipped if you want that perfect texture.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a simple weeknight meal, Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight is bound to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s bring a bit of Italian magic into your kitchen. You won’t regret it!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight
Click here to get printable version
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced, for serving
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
- Slice each chicken breast in half to create four thinner pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Create a breading station with three dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken piece in flour, dip it in the egg, and roll it in breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it covers about ¼ inch of the pan.
- Add the breaded chicken into the hot oil, frying for around 4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Arrange the fried chicken in a baking dish, pouring marinara sauce over them.
- Top each piece with slices of mozzarella and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
No Fresh Mozzarella? Try These Alternatives
If you can’t find fresh mozzarella, you can easily swap it with shredded mozzarella cheese or even provolone cheese for a slightly different flavor. For a sharper taste, try using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar. Remember to use cheeses that melt well to maintain that gooey goodness!
Best Ways to Store Leftover Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, consider using the oven to maintain crispiness. Simply preheat to 375°F (190°C) and warm the chicken for about 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy.
Perfect Pairings for Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight
Serve with a side of spaghetti or a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the chicken. Garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment, offering a satisfying crunch. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan
Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil. Use a thermometer if needed. For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs. Let the chicken rest on paper towels after frying to keep it crisp before baking.
Seasonal Twists for Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight
In summer, add fresh garden tomatoes to your marinara sauce for a vibrant flavor. In autumn, sprinkle a dash of nutmeg into the sauce for warmth. During winter, use roasted red peppers in the sauce for depth. In spring, consider adding asparagus tips as a garnish for a fresh touch.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be a delicious alternative, offering a more intense flavor due to their higher fat content. Ensure they’re boneless and skinless for ease of preparation. You might need to adjust the frying time slightly, as thighs can be thicker than breast pieces.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-based thickeners or additives.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil can be used as an alternative. Sprinkle it sparingly over the chicken before baking for the best results. Fresh parsley or oregano can also be lovely substitutes, offering their own unique aromas and flavors.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian spin. Follow the same breading and frying process, ensuring the eggplant becomes tender and golden. This makes a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian dish while keeping to the recipe’s spirit.
What side dishes complement this dish best?
Classic spaghetti with olive oil and garlic makes a perfect pairing, as does a fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes and mozzarella. For a lighter option, serve with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. All these choices help balance the rich flavors of the chicken parmesan.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the breading stage and refrigerate it for a few hours. When you’re ready to cook, remove it from the fridge, fry the pieces, and then proceed with baking. This method is great for saving time on busy evenings or when entertaining guests.
Crispy Chicken Parmesan Delight
Equipment
- cast iron skillet
Ingredients
Chicken Ingredients:
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup flour
- 2 pieces eggs beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
Topping Ingredients:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil thinly sliced, for serving
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Begin by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally to yield four thinner pieces.
- Sprinkle the chicken with salt, pepper, and onion powder to enhance the flavor.
Breading Station:
- Prepare a breading station by first coating each chicken piece in flour, followed by dipping in beaten eggs, and lastly covering with seasoned breadcrumbs.
Frying:
- In a cast-iron skillet, add enough vegetable oil to cover the base by about ¼ inch and heat over medium-high.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken into the hot oil and fry for approximately 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn a golden brown.
- Once cooked, move the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) in preparation for baking.
Assembling:
- Arrange the fried chicken in a baking dish. If necessary, overlap them slightly.
- Generously cover the chicken with marinara sauce.
- Add layers of mozzarella cheese on top, followed by some grated parmesan.
- Bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and beautifully browned.
- Before serving, garnish with sliced fresh basil for a vibrant touch.
