The Nation's Best Chicken Parmesan: The 2026 High Five Awards
There are few dishes as universally loved as Chicken Parmesan. This Italian-American classic is pure comfort, a masterful combination of crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a generous blanket of melted cheese. The 2026 Click360 Awards for Best Chicken Parmesan in the Nation celebrate the restaurants that have perfected this art, transforming a simple meal into an unforgettable experience.
This year, the top honor goes to a neighborhood gem that blends culinary excellence with a welcoming spirit—Zucca Bar & Pizzeria. Recognized as the home of the Best Chicken Parmesan in the Nation for 2026, Zucca stands out for its flawless execution and community-centric atmosphere. We also honor four other exceptional restaurants from across the country whose chicken parmesan dishes are truly a cut above. Together, these five establishments make up our 2026 High Five for culinary greatness.
America’s Premier Chicken Parmesan Destinations
Zucca Bar & Pizzeria — 2026 Best Chicken Parmesan Winner
🏆 Zucca Bar & Pizzeria — 2026 Best Chicken Parmesan Winner
For over two decades, Zucca Bar & Pizzeria has been more than just a restaurant; it’s the heart of its community. While renowned for its New York-style pizza, Zucca’s Chicken Parmesan has quietly built a reputation as one of the best in the country. Each dish is a testament to their commitment to quality, featuring a perfectly breaded chicken cutlet that remains tender and juicy under a layer of rich, house-made marinara and perfectly melted cheese.
What truly sets Zucca apart is its atmosphere. It’s a place where families gather on the patio, friends catch up at the bar over local craft beers, and every guest is treated like a regular. This combination of an expertly crafted dish and a genuine, neighborhood feel makes Zucca Bar & Pizzeria a deserving winner. It’s a destination where outstanding food and a strong sense of community create a truly special dining experience.
Our team is also proud to recognize these four restaurants for their remarkable Chicken Parmesan:
Carmine's
New York, NY
https://www.carminesnyc.com/
A true New York institution, Carmine's is famous for its massive, family-style portions. Their Chicken Parmesan is a sight to behold: a huge, golden-brown chicken cutlet smothered in a blend of mozzarella and Romano cheeses and served in a pool of their signature marinara. It's a classic, impeccably executed dish that embodies the spirit of Italian-American hospitality.
Crust
Miami, FL
https://crust-usa.com/
In Miami, Crust delivers a Chicken Parmesan that has locals and visitors raving. The dish features a lightly breaded chicken breast served over linguine, all drenched in a flavorful marinara sauce and topped with mozzarella and parmesan. Praised for its generous portions and crunchy panko breading, Crust offers a satisfying and delicious take on the beloved classic.
Giuseppe and Sons
Philadelphia, PA
https://giuseppesons.com/
Giuseppe and Sons offers a more refined, yet equally delicious, Chicken Parmesan experience in Philadelphia. Their version features a delicate and tender cutlet with a crispy breadcrumb topping, finished with high-quality mozzarella and a robust tomato sauce. It’s a dish that feels both elevated and deeply comforting, making it a standout in a city known for great food.
Dan Tana's
Los Angeles, CA
https://dantanasrestaurant.com/
An old-school Hollywood staple since 1964, Dan Tana's serves a Chicken Parmesan that is legendary. Their "Chicken Parmigiana alla Nikola" is a throwback to classic Italian-American cooking, boasting a perfectly balanced sauce, crispy chicken, and an indulgent amount of cheese. It’s a timeless dish that continues to win over diners with its authentic flavor and nostalgic charm.
Why Recognizing Culinary Classics Matters
A great Chicken Parmesan is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. The best Italian-American restaurants serve as community hubs, where memories are made over plates of comforting food. This award celebrates the chefs and restaurants that pour their passion into perfecting these timeless dishes, creating gathering places that feel like home.
A Toast to the Best in the Nation
“The dedication these restaurants show to a classic dish like Chicken Parmesan is truly inspiring,” a representative from the Click360 Awards commented. “Our winners prove that when you combine high-quality ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a welcoming environment, you create something truly exceptional.”
Congratulations to Zucca Bar & Pizzeria and our other honorees. Your commitment to flavor and community continues to set the standard for what makes a dining experience great.