Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

Crusted Chicken Parmesan is a variation of the classic Chicken Parmesan that takes the beloved dish to new heights with an extra crispy, flavorful crust. Unlike traditional breaded chicken parmesan, this version features a crust made with a blend of breadcrumbs, herbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. The result is an even crispier and more flavorful chicken cutlet that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

This recipe is ideal for those who love the texture of a well-crusted chicken and crave a little extra crunch in their meal. The golden, crunchy coating, combined with the tender chicken breast, creates a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion.

Ingredients for Crusted Chicken Parmesan

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Olive oil (for drizzling)
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Flatten the chicken breasts by placing them between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures uniform cooking and keeps the chicken moist.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In the first shallow dish, place flour. In the second dish, beat eggs. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing any excess egg to drip off.
Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well to the surface.

Step 3: Bake the Crusted Chicken

Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the chicken with a little olive oil to help it crisp up during baking.
Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The crust should be crunchy and golden.

Step 4: Top with Marinara and Cheese

Once the chicken is crispy and fully cooked, remove it from the oven.
Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken.
Top with 1/3 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Serve the crusted chicken parmesan with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy crust, use panko breadcrumbs. They’re lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs and will give your chicken a perfect crispy texture.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate your own Parmesan cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese for a more flavorful, smoother coating.
Ensure Even Coating: Make sure the chicken is evenly coated in each step—flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs down gently so they stick well, especially around the edges.
Olive Oil Drizzle: Drizzling olive oil over the breaded chicken before baking helps achieve a golden, crisp crust. You can also spray the chicken lightly with olive oil spray if you prefer.
Homemade Marinara: Using homemade marinara sauce can elevate the dish with fresh ingredients and tailored seasoning. If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara works just fine!

Variations of Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan

Swap the chicken for sliced eggplant to make a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish. The breaded and baked eggplant slices take on the same crispy texture, and the marinara sauce and melted cheese still provide that comforting, flavorful experience.

Chicken Parmesan Sandwich

Turn this crusted chicken parmesan into a hearty sandwich by placing the crispy chicken on a sub roll or burger bun. Add marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil for a delicious handheld version of this dish.

Spicy Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Add a touch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist. This version adds a bit of heat to balance out the rich marinara sauce and melted cheese.

Gluten-Free Crusted Chicken Parmesan

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What to Serve with Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Spaghetti: The most classic pairing, spaghetti is the perfect base to enjoy the marinara sauce and cheesy crusted chicken. Toss the spaghetti with a little extra sauce or some garlic butter for added flavor.
Garlic Bread: A side of crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce. You can make it easily by spreading garlic butter on slices of French bread and toasting them in the oven.
Side Salad: Serve the crusted chicken with a fresh green salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crisp salad complements the richness of the chicken parmesan.
Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier side, try roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli. The slight caramelization from roasting adds a depth of flavor that balances the richness of the main dish.

Storing and Reheating Crusted Chicken Parmesan

Storing

Allow the chicken parmesan to cool before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you have extra marinara sauce, store it separately so the chicken stays crispier when reheated.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help restore the crispiness of the crust.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the chicken in a microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until hot, though the crust may not stay as crispy.

Conclusion: A Crispy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Crusted Chicken Parmesan offers a deliciously crispy twist on the classic chicken parmesan dish. The combination of golden, crunchy breadcrumbs and the tender, juicy chicken creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone craving more. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, it’s an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving it with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad, this crusted chicken parmesan will quickly become a family favorite. The crispy crust adds a delightful texture to the dish, while the familiar flavors of marinara and cheese ensure it remains a comforting and delicious meal.