Chicken Parma
The Parma vs Parmi Debate: A Pub Staple Explained
What Is a Chicken Parma (or Parmi)?
Walk into any Australian pub and you will see it on the menu: a chicken parmigiana. Aussies shorten it depending on where they live. Victorians say "parma." Queenslanders and New South Welshman say "parmi." Either way it is a corn flake crumbed chicken schnitzel topped with marinara sauce, occasionally sliced ham, and melted mozzarella cheese, served with chips and and house salad.
Why the Debate Exists
Australia loves regional nicknames. The parma vs parmi split is a cultural quirk that sparks arguments across the country. It is not about the recipe. It is about identity. For Victorians, "parma" is the only correct name. Everywhere else, "parmi" rules.
The Role of the Pub Classic:
This dish is more than food. It is a ritual. Families, friends, and coworkers gather around it. Pubs run "parma nights" with discounted meals, "parma and a pint" is a staple in Melbourne. Every Aussie has a memory tied to ordering one or eating one.
What It Means in Chicago
Most Americans think of chicken Parmesan as an Italian-American pasta dish. The Aussie version is its own category: schnitzel base, pub-style toppings, fries on the side. At Chapel Street Cafe and Restaurant we serve it the way Australians expect it to come, no matter what you call it. Whether you are team parma or team parmi, you are welcome at the table.