Print

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Marinara Sauce

crispy parmesan crusted chicken breast - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy crispy parmesan crusted chicken breast served with a tangy, fresh-tasting marinara sauce. This comforting dish features a golden, crunchy crust and juicy chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade; Panko works great)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for pan-frying
  • About 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred), optionally with fresh basil and red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from chicken breasts. Place each between plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag and pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch (1.3 cm).
  2. Set up dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Season chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into eggs, letting extra drip off. Press firmly into parmesan breadcrumb mixture for a thick coating. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
  5. Place coated chicken breasts in hot oil without crowding. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until crust is golden and chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
  6. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep warm covered loosely with foil.
  7. Warm marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Stir in chopped fresh basil, red pepper flakes, and a teaspoon of olive oil. Simmer gently for 5-7 minutes.
  8. Serve chicken breasts topped with warm marinara sauce. Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh basil if desired.

Notes

For extra crunch, double coat the chicken with egg and breadcrumb mixture. To keep crust crispy, serve marinara sauce on the side or add just before eating. If chicken browns too fast, lower heat and cover pan briefly to finish cooking. For gluten-free, substitute almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Baking option: bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken, parmesan crusted chicken, chicken breast recipe, easy marinara sauce, quick dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, pan-fried chicken

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/crispy-parmesan-crusted-chicken-breast-recipe-with-easy-marinara-sauce/