Classic Chicken Parmigiana Recipe—How to Make the Italian Favorite at Home

Molten mozzarella over golden cutlets in tangy tomato sauce offers pure comfort.

By Sneha Tete, Integrated MA, Certified Relationship Coach

Created on Sep 16, 2025

Molten mozzarella over golden cutlets in tangy tomato sauce offers pure comfort.

Introduction to Chicken Parmigiana

Chicken parmigiana, affectionately known as “chicken parm,” is a beloved Italian-American classic that combines crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara, and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s a dish that’s satisfying enough for a Sunday supper but simple enough for a weeknight family dinner. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make chicken parmigiana like The Pioneer Woman—warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy-to-follow steps for both beginner and experienced cooks
Crispy outside, juicy inside—every bite is perfection
Versatile: Serve with pasta, a fresh salad, or garlic bread
Family-friendly comfort food that’s always a hit
Flexible for dietary preferences—try with gluten-free breadcrumbs or dairy-free cheeses

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make chicken parmigiana at home:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups marinara sauce
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Olive oil, for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken:

Pound the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
Season: Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Breading the Chicken

For the ultimate crispy coating, use a three-step breading process:

Flour: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Egg wash: Beat the eggs in a second dish. Dip each floured chicken breast in the eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
Breadcrumb mixture: In a third dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Cooking the Chicken

There are two classic methods: pan-frying and baking (see variations below for an air fryer option).

Pan-fry: Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate.
Oven finish: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the cooked chicken in a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10–12 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken parmigiana is traditionally served with pasta, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy it:

With pasta: Toss cooked spaghetti, linguine, or bucatini with extra marinara and top with a chicken cutlet.
Sandwiches: Place a chicken cutlet on a toasted hoagie roll with extra sauce and cheese for a classic Italian sub.
With greens: Serve alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
Garlic bread: Don’t forget a side of garlic bread to sop up the sauce!

Variations

Variation	Description	Key Adjustments
Chicken Parm Pasta	Combine chicken strips, marinara, and pasta for a one-pot meal	Slice chicken into strips, toss with sauce and cooked pasta, top with mozzarella and bake
Air Fryer Chicken Parm	No frying, less mess—crispy, cheesy chicken in minutes	Coat chicken as above, air fry at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, top with sauce and cheese, air fry 2–3 minutes more until melted
Gluten-Free	For dietary needs, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs	Follow same breading and cooking steps with gluten-free substitutes

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chicken Parmigiana

Use fresh breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, make your own breadcrumbs from fresh bread.
Grate your own cheese: Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella melt better and taste superior.
Season at every step: Don’t forget to season the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs for maximum flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches to maintain a crispy crust.
Let it rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the cheese to set.

FAQs

Can I Make Chicken Parmigiana Ahead of Time?

You can bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Assemble the dish and bake it when ready, or bake fully and reheat in the oven for best texture.

What Can I Substitute for Marinara Sauce?

Feel free to use homemade tomato sauce, jarred pasta sauce, or even a spicy arrabbiata for a kick.

Can I Use Turkey or Eggplant Instead of Chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey or eggplant cutlets can be breaded and baked using the same method for a delicious alternative.

How Do I Make Chicken Parmigiana Extra Crispy?

Double-coat the chicken: after the first breading, dip again in egg and breadcrumbs for an even crispier crust.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results (microwaving may soften the crust).

The Pioneer Woman’s Signature Twist

The Pioneer Woman’s recipe is known for its comforting flavors, easy preparation, and a balance of crispy, saucy, and cheesy bites. Her version often features homemade marinara (simmered with onions, garlic, and a splash of wine), but a quality jarred sauce works in a pinch. She also loves to finish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra parmesan for a pop of color and flavor.

Dietary Considerations

This classic dish is naturally high in protein, but can be adjusted for special diets:

Low-carb/Keto: Use almond flour and grated parmesan as the breading.
Dairy-free: Substitute vegan cheeses and omit parmesan.
Vegan: Use vegan mozzarella and breaded eggplant or a plant-based “chicken” substitute.

Pairing Wine with Chicken Parmigiana

A glass of Chianti, Sangiovese, or a light red wine complements the rich tomato sauce and cheese. For white wine lovers, try Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Final Thoughts

Chicken parmigiana is more than a recipe—it’s comfort, nostalgia, and family tradition on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this Italian classic is sure to please. With a little practice and these tips, you’ll be making chicken parm like a pro in no time. Buon appetito!

References

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete