Chicken Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella is a timeless Italian-American classic that brings together crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and creamy, melted fresh mozzarella. This version elevates the traditional dish by using fresh mozzarella instead of shredded cheese, creating a softer, creamier melt and a more authentic, restaurant-quality finish.
Golden, crunchy chicken cutlets form the perfect base for bright marinara sauce and fresh basil, while the mozzarella melts beautifully into luscious pools of cheese. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed on its own, this dish delivers comfort, elegance, and bold flavor in every bite—making it ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you simply crave a classic favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between crispy and creamy. The chicken stays crunchy underneath the sauce, while the fresh mozzarella melts into a rich, silky topping that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s a comforting dish that feels special every time I make it and never fails to impress.
Why This Is a Must-Try Dish
- Uses fresh mozzarella for superior flavor and texture
- Crispy chicken with rich, savory marinara
- Restaurant-quality results at home
- Perfect for both weeknights and entertaining
- Loved by kids and adults alike
If you enjoy classic comfort food with elevated flavor, this chicken parmesan is a must-try.
Recipe Overview
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: Approximately 520–560 calories per serving
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ cup olive oil (for frying)
For Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Cooking Directions
- Bread and pan-fry chicken until golden.
- Top with marinara and fresh mozzarella.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in a third.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dredge chicken in flour, dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture.
Step 4: Pan-Fry
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a baking dish.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet. Top with fresh mozzarella slices and sprinkle with Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Serve Chicken Parmesan
- Serve over spaghetti or fettuccine
- Pair with garlic bread or focaccia
- Add a simple green salad on the side
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh mozzarella for best melt and flavor
- Don’t overcrowd pan while frying
- Pat mozzarella dry to avoid excess moisture
- Use warmed marinara for even baking
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving
Variations (Detailed)
Baked Chicken Parmesan
Skip frying and bake breaded chicken at 425°F for 20 minutes before topping.
Spicy Chicken Parmesan
Add crushed red pepper flakes to marinara.
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Chicken Parmesan Sandwich
Serve on toasted hoagie rolls with extra sauce.
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Air fry breaded chicken at 375°F for 10–12 minutes before topping and melting cheese.
Freezing and Storage
Freezing
- Freeze breaded, cooked chicken without sauce
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months
Storage
- Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container
- Keeps for 3–4 days
- Reheat in oven for best texture
Special Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Oven
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort dish—crispy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. The use of fresh mozzarella transforms this classic into something truly special, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether for a cozy family meal or an impressive dinner guest favorite, this dish never disappoints.
Chicken Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella
Chicken Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella is a timeless Italian-American classic that brings together crispy breaded chicken, rich tomato sauce, and creamy, melted fresh mozzarella.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
For Topping
Instructions
-
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken : Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
-
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station : Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, and oregano in a third.
-
Step 3: Bread the Chicken : Dredge chicken in flour, dip into eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture.
-
Step 4: Pan-Fry : Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a baking dish.
-
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese : Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet. Top with fresh mozzarella slices and sprinkle with Parmesan.
-
Step 6: Bake : Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
