Skillet Chicken Parmesan

Skillet Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish made easy in one pan. Crispy, golden-brown chicken cutlets are topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, then finished in the oven for a delicious, comforting meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Skillet Chicken Parmesan has all the flavors you love—crispy breaded chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and bubbly cheese—without the hassle of deep frying. It’s made in one pan, so cleanup is easy, and you can serve it straight from the skillet. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup olive oil (for frying)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan and garlic powder.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour marinara sauce around and over the chicken, then top each piece with shredded mozzarella.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
8. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: About 45 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra juiciness.
• Add a layer of cooked spaghetti underneath for a one-pan Chicken Parm pasta bake.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor.
• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the marinara sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover Skillet Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot. For best texture, avoid reheating in the skillet directly on the stovetop to prevent the breading from becoming soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Yes, a good-quality jarred marinara works perfectly.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

3. How do I keep the breading crispy?

Don’t overcrowd the skillet and make sure the oil is hot enough before frying.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?

Bread and fry the chicken, then store it in the fridge. Top with sauce and cheese and bake when ready to serve.

5. What’s the best cheese for Chicken Parmesan?

Mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can use provolone, fontina, or an Italian cheese blend.

6. Should I use fresh or dried herbs?

Fresh basil or parsley adds the best flavor, but dried works in a pinch.

7. Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?

Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken (without sauce) in a freezer-safe container. Add sauce and cheese when ready to bake.

8. What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.

9. Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?

Transfer the chicken to a baking dish before adding sauce and cheese.

10. What oil is best for frying?

Olive oil or a neutral oil like vegetable or canola both work well.

Conclusion

Skillet Chicken Parmesan is a delicious, comforting meal that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Crispy, saucy, cheesy, and full of flavor—this one-pan version will quickly become a family favorite!

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