Short Description

Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier take on the classic Italian-American dish, featuring crispy, breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This version skips deep frying and instead uses the oven to achieve a golden, crispy crust with tender and juicy chicken inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – By baking instead of frying, you cut down on excess oil while still getting a crispy texture.
• Easy to Make – Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this a great option for a weeknight dinner.
• Full of Flavor – A combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese with a rich marinara sauce gives this dish a classic, comforting taste.
• Family-Friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve it with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil spray
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Chicken – Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Set Up the Breading Station – In one shallow bowl, place flour. In another, beat the eggs. In a third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
4. Bread the Chicken – Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Bake the Chicken – Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese – Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Finish Baking – Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve – Let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour substitutes.
• Air Fryer Version – Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, before adding sauce and cheese.
• Low-Carb Version – Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Extra Crunchy – Double coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken (without sauce and cheese) for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

How do I keep the chicken crispy?

Make sure to bake the chicken on a wire rack to allow air circulation, and avoid using too much sauce to prevent sogginess.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but they may require a few extra minutes of baking time.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

It pairs well with spaghetti, roasted vegetables, Caesar salad, or garlic bread.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! Choose a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese substitutes or omit the cheese altogether.

Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives a crispier texture. Fresh breadcrumbs may result in a softer crust.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded?

Yes, but fresh mozzarella holds more moisture, so pat it dry before adding to prevent a watery dish.

Conclusion

Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic dish, offering the perfect combination of crispy breading, savory marinara, and melted cheese. It is easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe for a comforting meal that everyone will love!

Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

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• Author: Sarra
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

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Description

Crispy, golden-baked chicken parmesan coated in a flavorful breadcrumb crust and topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This healthier, oven-baked version delivers all the deliciousness of the classic Italian favorite—without the deep frying!

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil, for garnish

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Instructions

• Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
• Prepare the Coating – In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
• Coat the Chicken – Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
• Bake the Chicken – Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil on top for extra crispiness. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Add the Toppings – Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Melt the Cheese – Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
• Serve – Garnish with fresh basil and serve with pasta or a side salad. Enjoy!

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Notes

• For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end of baking.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a unique flavor.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast portion
• Calories: 380 kcal
• Sugar: ~4g
• Sodium: ~720mg
• Fat: ~15g
• Saturated Fat: ~6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: ~26g
• Fiber: ~2g
• Protein: ~38g
• Cholesterol: ~120mg