Baked Chicken Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Italian-American favorite. Instead of frying, the chicken is oven-baked to golden perfection while still achieving a crispy coating. Topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Italian-style breadcrumbs
grated Parmesan cheese
eggs
all-purpose flour
marinara sauce
shredded mozzarella cheese
olive oil or cooking spray
salt
black pepper
fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease with cooking spray or olive oil.

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then dip in the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

Remove from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken. Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crispy texture.
Try adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Swap in provolone or fontina cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
Serve over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a bed of arugula for variety.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture of the coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay juicy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it a few hours in advance before baking.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze the baked chicken without sauce and cheese. Add toppings and reheat when ready.

Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Absolutely, a good-quality jarred sauce saves time and works perfectly.

How do I prevent the coating from getting soggy?
Ensure the chicken is baked on a rack or flip it during baking to keep the crust crisp.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken?
Yes, pounding ensures even cooking and helps tenderize the meat.

Can I air fry this recipe?
Yes, cook in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes per side.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Parmesan delivers all the classic flavors you love with a healthier, oven-baked twist. It’s crispy, cheesy, and saucy in every bite, making it a family favorite you’ll want to keep on regular rotation. Serve it with pasta or veggies for a balanced and satisfying meal.

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