For the best chicken Parmesan, try Chef John's version that's pan-fried and then baked, delivering impressive results with a crispier crust than most recipes.
Preparation Time
15 mins
Cooking Time
20 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Calories
471 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Preheat an oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C).
Step 2
Place chicken breasts between two sheets of heavy plastic (resealable freezer bags work well) on a solid, level surface. Firmly pound chicken with the smooth side of a meat mallet to a thickness of 1/2-inch. Season chicken thoroughly with salt and pepper.
Step 3
Beat eggs in a shallow bowl and set aside.
Step 4
Mix bread crumbs and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl, set aside.
Step 5
Place flour in a sifter or strainer; sprinkle over chicken breasts, evenly coating both sides.
Step 6
Dip a flour-coated chicken breast in beaten eggs. Transfer breast to the bread crumb mixture, pressing crumbs into both sides. Repeat for each breast. Let chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 7
Heat 1/2 inch olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. Cook chicken in the hot oil until golden, about 2 minutes per side. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 8
Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top each breast with 2 tablespoons tomato sauce. Layer each chicken breast with equal amounts of mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and provolone cheese. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan over top and drizzle each with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil.
Step 9
Bake in the preheated oven until cheese is browned and bubbly and chicken breasts are no longer pink in the center, 15 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
Ingredients
2 large eggs
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
2 teaspoons olive oil
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 cup panko bread crumbs, or more as needed
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, or more if needed
