One of the most popular chicken recipes in Australia is the classic chicken parmigiana. Combining tender breaded chicken breasts with a tangy tomato-based napoli sauce and melted cheese, this dish has become a favourite meal in pubs, restaurants and at home. This HelloFresh Stories guide shows you how to make an easy chicken parma recipe at home.
What is a chicken parma?
Chicken parma is made of baked or pan-fried chicken schnitzel covered in crunchy breadcrumbs and a rich, tomato-based Napoli sauce. It's then topped with melted Italian cheese, usually mozzarella or Parmesan, or a combination of both. Ingredients such as ham are sometimes included for extra flavour. Originally inspired by Italian cuisine, classic chicken parmigiana has since become a favourite among Australian recipes.
Ingredients for a classic chicken parma
The three main ingredients you need to make a chicken parma recipe are the chicken, the sauce, and the toppings. Here’s what to consider for each ingredient.
The crumbed chicken
The foundation for any good chicken parma dish is the chicken itself. Take a tender piece of chicken breast and pound it until evenly thin. Coat it in a mix of egg and flour, then add the breadcrumbs. Any type of breadcrumbs can be used, although Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice. Make sure the entire chicken breast is covered in the crumbs, then bake or pan-fry the schnitzel until golden brown. The resulting crumbed chicken schnitzel should be light and crispy, while retaining its tenderness inside.
The Napoli (tomato) sauce
While you can use any tomato sauce for your chicken parma recipe, the best sauce to use is Napoli. Napoli sauce is a herby tomato sauce made using fresh tomatoes, garlic and onions, plus herbs and spices like basil and oregano. Some recipes also add a touch of chilli for extra zest. While you can find Napoli sauce in stores, homemade Napoli sauce is relatively easy to make. The sauce offers a rich and tangy contrast to the chicken and toppings, adding a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Ham and cheese
Gooey, melted cheese is the final main ingredient in any chicken parma recipe that helps bind the flavours together. Mozzarella is the most common variety, although Parmesan is also popular. The cheese is melted until golden brown and poured generously over the sauce and schnitzel. Some recipes also include thinly sliced ham, such as prosciutto, to add an extra element of saltiness to the dish.
How to make chicken parma: step by step
Making Aussie chicken parmigiana is easier than you might think. Once the chicken is coated and cooked, all that's left is adding the toppings and baking until golden.
- Pound the chicken breast until evenly thin.
- Coat the chicken by dipping it in seasoned flour, then beaten egg, before covering it with breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 180°C for about 25 minutes or pan-fry over medium heat until crispy and golden.
- Place the cooked chicken on a baking tray, spoon over the Napoli sauce, add ham or bacon if using, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Return to the oven for up to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden and bubbly. Serve immediately.
Common mistakes to avoid with chicken parma
- Flatten the chicken evenly before cooking so it cooks through at the same rate.
- Pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick properly.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan or baking tray, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Grate your own mozzarella or Parmesan where possible for the best melt.
- Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Follow the recommended cooking times for the best results.
What to serve with chicken parma
Chicken parma recipes in Australia are often served with a side of golden chips. They can offer a delicious contrast to the classic chicken parma dish, while also allowing you to scoop up any extra sauce. Bread can also be used for absorbing the chicken parma sauce, and garlic bread in particular goes well with a garlic & herb chicken parmigiana meal. Finally, for a healthier alternative, consider a leafy garden salad for a refreshing alternative side dish. For more ideas, consider chicken parma recipes available from HelloFresh meal kits.
How to store and reheat chicken parma
To store chicken parma for later, first let it cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container. You can safely refrigerate it for up to four days, or for three months in the freezer. Once thawed, reheat the chicken parma in an oven at 175°C for 20 minutes or in an oil-covered pan over medium heat. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken is around 74°C before consuming.
Chicken Parma FAQ
What’s the difference between a parma and a parmi?
In some regions in Australia, a chicken parma is called a parmi. There are no real differences between the two: both refer to the same classic chicken parmigiana recipe.
What cheese is best for a chicken parma?
Italian cheese that melts easily, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, is the top choice for chicken parma. Always buy fresh and shred them yourself to ensure they melt properly.
Do you put ham on a chicken parma?
Yes, you can. Ham is an optional ingredient in any chicken parma recipe, but a popular one in many places. Consider a slice of prosciutto or bacon to add salty zest to your recipe.
Can you make chicken parma ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the breaded chicken, sauce and shredded cheese ahead of time, then store them separately for cooking later. Ensure they are kept in an airtight container, refrigerated and used within a few days.
What sauce goes on a chicken parma?
Napoli sauce is the most popular chicken parma sauce, made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, onions, herbs and spices. However, any tomato sauce can be used if preferred.
What do you serve with a chicken parma?
Chips (French fries) are the most popular choice of side dish served with chicken parma recipes. Alternatively, garlic bread and garden salads are tasty choices.