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Parmesan Crusted Chicken Parmesan: The Ultimate Family Dinner Recipe

Golden brown parmesan crusted chicken parmesan served with vegetables

If you’re searching for that perfect family dinner recipe that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with wholesome ingredients, look no further than this Parmesan Crusted Chicken Parmesan. This recipe transforms simple chicken tenders into an extraordinary meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its golden parmesan crust and tender interior, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to prepare—even for serving up to 10 people!

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a healthy clean-eating option, want to incorporate extra veggies, or need a crowd-pleasing dish for larger gatherings, this recipe adapts beautifully. The parmesan crust adds incredible flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Ingredients

4 lbs chicken tenderloins (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
2 cups grated parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 large eggs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Create three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the parmesan breadcrumb mixture (combine parmesan, panko, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika).

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken tender in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the parmesan mixture, ensuring even coating. Place on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken tender, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.

Expert Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

For extra crispy crust, spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before baking
Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor and texture
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier results
For spicy version, add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture
Double batch for meal prep—reheats beautifully

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free flour.

How do I serve 10 people with this recipe?

Double the recipe and serve with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a large salad for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Serve with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a complete chicken and veggie dinner.

Is this recipe healthy?

By baking instead of frying and using lean chicken tenderloins, this becomes a cleaner alternative to traditional fried chicken parmesan.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, just cut chicken breasts into even strips for uniform cooking.