Chicken Parmesan Meatballs

Golden, crispy chicken cutlets smothered in marinara and melted mozzarella—this classic dish is comfort food at its finest.

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to make and delivers restaurant-style flavor, this Chicken Parmesan recipe is a must-try. It’s a go-to in my kitchen when I want something cozy, cheesy, and packed with Italian flavor. The crispy breaded chicken, warm marinara, and melty mozzarella come together in under 45 minutes—and the results are always a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Ready in about 30–40 minutes with simple pantry staples.

  • Crispy outside, juicy inside: Breaded and pan-fried for the perfect crunch.

  • Family favorite: Even picky eaters love this classic Italian-American dish.

  • Versatile: Serve it over pasta, on a sandwich roll, or alongside a salad.

When I made this for my in-laws for the first time, they went back for seconds and thirds. Safe to say, it’s now on regular rotation in our house!

Ingredients

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

  • 2 large eggs

  • ¾ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra for topping)

  • 3 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Place between plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Tip: Even thickness = even cooking. Don’t skip the pounding step!

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare three shallow bowls:

  1. Flour

  2. Lightly beaten eggs

  3. Breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan

Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add breaded chicken cutlets and cook 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Transfer to a baking dish.

Don’t overcrowd the pan! Work in batches if needed for the best crispiness.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese

Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken cutlet. Top with shredded mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.

Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a golden, bubbly cheese top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

  • Spaghetti or penne: Toss with extra marinara for a classic pairing.

  • Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up all that saucy goodness.

  • Green salad: A simple side of mixed greens balances the richness.

  • Roasted veggies: Try zucchini, broccoli, or asparagus.

Helpful Tips for Success

✔ Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy crust.
✔ Let the chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing to keep juices in.
✔ Don’t skip the broil step—it gives that irresistible cheesy topping!

Make-Ahead & Storage

To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To freeze: Wrap cooked, cooled chicken (without sauce) in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the breading crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great and stay juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What’s the best cheese for topping?
Mozzarella is classic, but provolone or fontina are delicious swaps for a slightly different flavor.

→ Can I air-fry the chicken instead?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then top with sauce and cheese and broil to melt.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless dish for a reason—it’s comforting, flavorful, and always a hit with the whole family. This recipe simplifies the traditional version while keeping everything you love: crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and savory sauce. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special Sunday dinner, this one’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

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