Description
This Skillet Chicken Parmesan recipe features tender, thinly pounded chicken breasts that are crispy on the outside, topped with a rich marinara sauce and a melty blend of fresh and shredded mozzarella cheeses, all baked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. It’s a comforting Italian-American classic perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (or thin cutlets), halved lengthwise and thinned to make 4 slices
Breading
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 1 teaspoon water (for egg mixture)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Cooking & Topping
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups marinara or tomato sauce
- 8 ounce fresh mozzarella ball, sliced
- 1 cup low-moisture shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking after the chicken is prepared.
- Prepare the chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thin slices. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each slice to under half an inch thickness to tenderize and flatten them evenly. To avoid mess, cover with plastic wrap during this step.
- Set up breading stations: On one plate, mix breadcrumbs, half of the parmesan cheese, and minced fresh basil. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and water. On a third plate, spread out the flour.
- Bread the chicken: Dredge each chicken slice first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, followed by pressing into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat. Place breaded chicken on a clean plate and repeat with remaining slices.
- Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add two chicken slices at a time and cook about 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove cooked chicken to a plate and repeat with the rest.
- Prepare skillet for baking: Cool the skillet slightly, then wipe out any excess oil. Pour half a cup of marinara sauce into the skillet and spread evenly.
- Assemble chicken for baking: Place all four cooked chicken slices back into the skillet with minimal overlapping. Cover the chicken evenly with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top. Arrange fresh mozzarella slices on each piece and optionally top with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake the chicken: Place the skillet in the oven uncovered. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Thin chicken slices will cook quickly and are usually mostly cooked before baking.
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of pasta if desired.
Notes
- Using thin chicken slices ensures even cooking and tenderness.
- Covering the chicken with plastic wrap before pounding prevents splatter and keeps your prep area clean.
- The combination of fresh mozzarella and shredded mozzarella creates a perfect melty and gooey cheese topping.
- If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, another oven-safe skillet or baking dish can be used.
- Serve with pasta or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American