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Chicken Parmesan

This homemade chicken parmesan is a high-protein take on a classic Italian-American favourite. By using succulent chicken thighs instead of breasts, the meat remains tender and juicy under its crisp, golden breadcrumb coating. The addition of sun-dried tomato pesto brings a rich, savoury depth that perfectly complements the bubbling mozzarella and vibrant tomato sauce.

Ideal for a comforting mid-week meal or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish is satisfyingly filling and packed with flavour. Serve the golden chicken stacks over a bed of warmed marinara sauce with an extra grating of salty Parmesan for a restaurant-quality finish at home. It is a nutritious, protein-rich option that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan

  • 250g fine dry breadcrumbs

  • 240ml plain flour

  • 4 large eggs

  • 240ml whole milk

  • 8 small skinless, boneless chicken thighs, pounded to 1/2" thickness

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • N/A freshly ground pepper

  • 120ml olive oil

  • 120ml prepared sun-dried tomato pesto

  • 450g fresh mozzarella, cut into 8 slices

  • 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 950ml prepared marinara sauce, warmed

  • Finely grated Parmesan (for serving)

Place breadcrumbs and flour in 2 separate shallow bowls. Whisk eggs and milk in a medium bowl. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Coat with beaten egg mixture, allowing excess to drip back into bowl. Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere. Place on a large plate or rimmed baking sheet.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Working in 4 batches, cook thighs until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 4 minutes per side; transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Wipe skillet clean and add 2 tablespoons oil between batches.

Preheat grill. Lay 4 cutlets on a foil-lined baking sheet; spread each with 2 tablespoons pesto, top with a slice of cheese, and sprinkle with red pepper. Top with remaining cutlets and cheese. Grill until cheese browns, about 4 minutes.

Divide sauce and chicken among shallow bowls and top with Parmesan.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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