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Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti – Italian-American Recipes for Dinner

Let me tell you, Chicken Parmesan has this magical way of making any weeknight feel like a special occasion. The crispy, golden crust of the chicken paired with gooey melted cheese and tangy tomato sauce is absolutely irresistible. And when it’s served over a hearty bed of spaghetti? Well, that’s comfort food at its finest. I remember the first time I nailed this recipe—it filled the whole house with that amazing Italian aroma, making everyone rush to the table. It’s such a crowd-pleaser and super satisfying when done right. I can’t wait for you to try this easy dinner classic and enjoy that perfect balance of crispy, saucy, and cheesy in every bite!

Quick Facts

Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup plain breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil (for frying)
8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce / Garnish:

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite jarred brand)
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
12 ounces spaghetti

How I Make It

Step 1:

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness—about 1/2 inch thick works best for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps the breading stick better and ensures flavorful chicken.

Step 2:

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb mix. Press gently to help the crumbs adhere.

Step 3:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully add the chicken breasts and fry until golden brown and crisp, about 4 minutes per side. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. The chicken won’t be cooked through yet, so don’t skip the next step.

Step 4:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the fried chicken breasts on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce evenly over each piece. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top until each cutlet is nicely covered.

Step 5:

Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to salt your pasta water for flavor!

Step 6:

Drain the spaghetti and toss with a little olive oil or reserved pasta water to keep it silky. Serve the crispy, cheesy chicken Parmesan over a nest of spaghetti, garnished with fresh basil and a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like a little heat.

Variations & Tips

Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
Try adding Italian seasoning or dried oregano to the breadcrumb mixture for more herb flavor.
Swap out marinara for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a kick.
For a lighter version, bake the breaded chicken on a wire rack instead of frying.
Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier, meltier topping.
Double the sauce ingredients if you love lots of sauce on your Parmesan.

How I Like to Serve It

This dish shines on cozy weeknights when you want something hearty but homey. Pair it with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread to round out the meal. It’s also a winner for casual dinner parties—everyone loves cheesy, crispy chicken! And if you’re feeling festive, a glass of Chianti or your favorite Italian red makes the perfect pairing.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the crust crisp.
You can substitute spaghetti with your favorite pasta shape or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.

Closing: This Chicken Parmesan recipe is a reliable, crowd-pleasing classic that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your soul with cozy satisfaction every single time.