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Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Melted Mozzarella inspired by The Ground Round
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Inspired by The Ground Round
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Chicken Parmesan with Marinara and Melted Mozzarella

Main Course
This classic Italian-American dish features a crispy breaded chicken breast topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The chicken is first pan-fried for a golden crust, then baked until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Served over spaghetti, this hearty, comforting dish combines savory flavors and varied textures in every bite.
Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Total Time 60 mins
Servings 4

Ingredients

  • 4 medium Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (About 6 oz each, pounded to 1/2-inch thickness)
  • 1 tsp Salt (Divided)
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper (Divided)
  • 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
  • 2 large Eggs (Beaten)
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Freshly grated, divided)
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1/3 cup Olive oil
  • 2 cups Marinara sauce (Homemade or high-quality jarred)
  • 8 oz Mozzarella cheese (Sliced or shredded)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves (Torn or chiffonade)
  • 1 lb Spaghetti
  • 2 tbsp Butter (For pasta)

Tools You'll Need

  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Three shallow dishes for breading
  • Large pot for pasta
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Cheese grater
  • Meat thermometer

Chef's Tip

For the crispiest chicken, don't rush the pan-frying step. Let each piece develop a golden crust before flipping, and maintain the oil at around 350°F. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the breading from getting soggy when topped with sauce.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for pasta.
  2. Season chicken breasts on both sides with half the salt and pepper.
  3. Set up breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish. Beat eggs in a second dish. In a third dish, combine Italian breadcrumbs, panko, 1/4 cup Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and remaining salt and pepper.
  4. Dredge chicken in flour, shake off excess. Dip in egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed to avoid crowding.
  6. Transfer chicken to paper towels briefly to drain excess oil, then return to skillet (or place in baking dish if skillet isn't oven-safe).
  7. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, covering only the center and leaving edges exposed for crispness. Top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  8. Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, and chicken reaches 165°F internally, about 15-20 minutes.
  9. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain, return to pot, and toss with butter.
  10. Serve chicken over spaghetti with additional warmed marinara sauce if desired. Sprinkle with fresh basil.

Plating

Place a portion of buttered spaghetti on each plate. Top with a chicken parmesan cutlet, ensuring the melted cheese and sauce are visible. Sprinkle with fresh basil and a little extra grated Parmesan. Add a small puddle of extra marinara sauce on the side if desired.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover chicken parmesan can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. The pasta can be stored separately and reheated in the microwave with a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent dryness.

About This Recipe

This Chicken Parmesan recipe recreates The Ground Round's classic Italian-American dish that's been a menu staple for generations. The combination of crisp exterior, juicy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese creates that signature comfort food experience. The technique of leaving the edges exposed while baking ensures the perfect texture contrast that makes restaurant versions stand out.

How did it turn out?

We'd love to hear about your experience making this recipe!