Get ready to indulge in a world of crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious chicken parmesan dishes! Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be diving into the wonderful world of 20 mouthwatering chicken parmesan recipes that are sure to satisfy any craving.
From classic renditions with marinara sauce to innovative twists featuring jalapeños and zucchini noodles, these recipes showcase a variety of techniques and flavor profiles to suit every taste. Whether you’re a fan of crispy breadcrumbs or air-fried goodness, we’ve included something for everyone in this comprehensive collection.
So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of chicken parmesan and discover new flavors and inspiration for your next meal!
Classic Chicken Parmesan with Marinara Sauce
Experience the comforting flavors of Italy with this timeless recipe for Classic Chicken Parmesan with Marinara Sauce. Crispy breaded chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce come together in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken breasts until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Transfer fried chicken to a baking dish and top each breast with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your pasta night with this crispy baked chicken parmesan recipe, featuring juicy chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Spread marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Spicy Chicken Parmesan with Jalapeños
A spicy twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, this dish combines juicy chicken, crispy breading, and melted mozzarella cheese with a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the eggs and then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Place cooked chicken on a baking sheet and top with marinara sauce, sliced jalapeños, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total
Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish gets a flavorful twist with this Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan recipe. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in garlic butter, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle garlic butter over the top of each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Top each breast with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
8. Return to oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Panko-Crusted Chicken Parmesan
This recipe elevates the classic chicken parmesan to new heights with the addition of panko breadcrumbs, creating a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated chicken breasts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your chicken parmesan game with this easy and healthier alternative using an air fryer. With minimal mess and maximum flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place a spoonful of marinara sauce on top of each breast and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Skillet Chicken Parmesan with Mozzarella
A classic Italian-American dish gets a skillet twist! This recipe yields crispy, cheesy, and savory chicken breasts that are perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and mozzarella cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Add the coated chicken breasts to the preheated skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer the chicken to a plate and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
6. Place the skillet under the broiler and melt the mozzarella cheese (about 2-3 minutes).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with jumbo pasta shells for a unique and delicious dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the chicken mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Chicken Parmesan with Zucchini Noodles
A healthier twist on a classic Italian-American favorite, this recipe swaps traditional pasta for zucchini noodles and reduces the breading and cheese to make it a low-carb option.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese (part-skim)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup zucchini noodles (zoodles)
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Pound chicken breasts to 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Dip each breast in the egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by sautéing them in a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble the dish by placing cooked chicken on top of zoodles and sprinkling with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Meatballs
Elevate your pasta night with these bite-sized chicken meatballs infused with the flavors of Chicken Parmesan. This recipe combines tender chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot with melted mozzarella cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish gets a convenient twist with this slow cooker recipe. Moist chicken breasts smothered in marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs make for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 jar of marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, whisk together marinara sauce and 1 tablespoon of water.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip each breast in the beaten egg and then coat in breadcrumbs.
3. Place coated chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the chicken.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Chicken Parmesan Sliders with Garlic Bread
Elevate your slider game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, and tangy marinara on toasted garlic bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Garlic bread spread (see below)
– Marinara sauce
– Mozzarella cheese slices
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare chicken by pounding thin, then coating in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and egg.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by placing cooked chicken on toasted buns, topping with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves.
Garlic Bread:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread garlic bread spread evenly on hamburger buns.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
A classic Italian-American favorite gets a grilled twist in this mouthwatering sandwich recipe. Juicy chicken, crispy breading, and melted mozzarella cheese come together to create the perfect comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 slices mozzarella cheese
– 4 Italian-style sub rolls
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on rolls, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Place under broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Casserole
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this easy-to-make casserole that combines the flavors of chicken parmesan, pasta, and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is a twist on the classic Italian-American dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a separate pan, cook chicken in marinara sauce until browned and cooked through.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, beaten egg, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the casserole mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Pizza
Transform a classic Italian-American dish into a mouthwatering pizza with this easy recipe. Crispy chicken, melted mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce come together on a bed of creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8-10 oz pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pound chicken breast to 1/4-inch thickness and season with salt.
3. Cook chicken in olive oil until cooked through; set aside.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
5. Spread tomato sauce over dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and chopped onion.
7. Place cooked chicken on top of the pizza.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty, cheesy, and satisfying Chicken Parmesan Pasta Bake. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken with marinara sauce until cooked through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Layer pasta, chicken mixture, and cheese mixture in that order.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and drizzle with beaten egg.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Parmesan with Pesto Sauce
Elevate your classic chicken parmesan dish with the bright, herby flavor of pesto sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the chicken by dipping each breast in beaten egg and then coating with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat the pesto sauce over medium heat.
5. Assemble the parmesan sandwiches by placing a cooked chicken breast on a plate, spooning some marinara sauce and pesto sauce on top, and finishing with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan
Savor the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with this gluten-free twist, using crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (such as rice-based or corn-based)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 jar marinara sauce (gluten-free)
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together gluten-free breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is baking, heat marinara sauce over medium heat.
7. Remove chicken from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each breast. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Parmesan with Roasted Red Peppers
Elevate your Italian-inspired meal with this flavorful twist on classic Chicken Parmesan, featuring roasted red peppers for a sweet and smoky kick. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and mozzarella cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Transfer chicken to baking sheet and top with roasted red peppers (see note).
6. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve with marinara sauce and garnish with parsley and basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers
A creative twist on classic stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, topped with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these 20 mouth-watering chicken parmesan recipes! From classic comfort food to creative twists and dietary adaptations, we’ve got you covered. Try our crispy baked or air-fried variations for a healthier take, or indulge in spicy, garlic butter, or panko-crusted goodness. Make it a meal with pasta bake, stuffed shells, or sliders, or go solo with a grilled sandwich or pizza. Whether you’re looking for low-carb, gluten-free, or slow-cooked options, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every occasion. Dive in and start cooking!
