Easy

Chicken Parmesan

Name: Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts; 150 g all-purpose flour; 3 whole large eggs, beaten; 200 g Italian-style breadcrumbs; 100 g grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 500 ml marinara sauce; 250 g shredded mozzarella cheese; 80 ml vegetable oil for frying; 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped; 450 g cooked spaghetti

35 min4530 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Uniform Pound & Rest

“Pound each breast to an even ½‑inch thickness before dredging; this guarantees the flour‑egg‑breadcrumb coat cooks uniformly and stays attached under the sauce. After the quick pan‑fry, let the cutlets rest three minutes—this brief pause prevents the crust from softening when you ladle hot marinara on top.”

About This Recipe

Chicken Parmesan has become a beloved staple in Canadian kitchens, offering a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. With its crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, this dish creates a symphony of textures and flavours that everyone can appreciate. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend gatherings, allowing you to whip up something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. By using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can achieve juicy meat that can be easily paired with fresh toppings, like shredded lettuce and ripe tomatoes, all nestled in a soft burger bun or tortilla. Canadian home cooks adore this recipe because it’s not just quick and easy; it also brings the family together for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

To ensure your Chicken Parmesan is perfectly cooked, aim for an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). This guarantees that the chicken remains juicy and tender. After pan-frying, consider finishing it in the oven for a few minutes to allow the cheese to melt beautifully without overcooking the chicken. Don't rush the resting period; letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its moisture.

What to Serve With It

Serve your Chicken Parmesan in a soft burger bun or wrap it in a tortilla, topped with fresh shredded lettuce and slices of juicy tomato for added crunch. A side of crispy sweet potato fries or a light Caesar salad complements the dish beautifully, bringing a Canadian flair to your meal. For a fun twist, consider adding some pickles for extra zing!

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so in the oven at 175°C (350°F) to maintain crispiness—avoid the microwave, which can make the chicken dry. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap; they will keep for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Per Serving

530

Calories

40g

Protein

21g

Fat

46g

Carbs

Fiber5g

Sugar5g

Sodium559mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?+

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a richer flavour and remain moist due to their higher fat content. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What kind of cheese works best for topping?+

While mozzarella is the classic choice for Chicken Parmesan, you can also use provolone or a mix of both for added flavour. If you want a bit more kick, try adding some freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?+

To make Chicken Parmesan gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your sauces and buns are also gluten-free to keep the entire meal compliant.

Can I prepare the chicken in advance?+

Yes! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. This allows the breadcrumbs to adhere better and can enhance the flavour as the seasonings soak in.

What can I use as a sauce alternative?+

If you're looking for a different flavour profile, try using pesto or a roasted red pepper sauce instead of marinara. Both add a delicious twist and pair wonderfully with the crispy chicken.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

15 min

Cook:

20 min

Total:

35 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken so they adhere during frying. Loose coating will fall off.
2Don't crowd the pan when frying. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain oil temperature.
3Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) after baking—visual cues alone can be misleading with breaded cutlets.
4Let the finished dish rest before cutting. This keeps the cheese from sliding off and the coating intact.

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy crust.
Add a layer of sliced fresh mozzarella and provolone for a richer, creamier melt.
Substitute the marinara with arrabbiata sauce for a spicy kick.

Chicken Sandwiches & Wraps