Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite. Crispy, golden chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella make for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
2. Step 2: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap to ensure even cooking.
3. Step 3: Crack the egg into a shallow bowl, add 1 tablespoon of water, and whisk until combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Step 5: Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
6. Step 6: Place the coated chicken breasts evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Step 7: Bake for 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Step 8: Spoon 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Step 9: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees and the cheese is melted.
10. Step 10: Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your homemade Baked Chicken Parmesan.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add Italian seasoning or fresh chopped basil to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Use low-fat mozzarella and reduced-sodium marinara sauce for a lighter dish.
• Serve over pasta or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep the breading crispy, or microwave with a cover for about 1-2 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer baking time due to their thickness and fat content.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to be safe to eat.

Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 176 reviews

This Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic Italian-American dish, featuring tender, breaded chicken breasts baked to perfection and topped with marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or entertaining.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Breading

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Toppings

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Pound chicken breasts: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
3. Prepare egg wash: Crack the egg into a shallow bowl, add 1 tablespoon of water, and whisk until well combined to create the egg wash for breading.
4. Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a second bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing thoroughly.
5. Coat chicken breasts: Dip each chicken breast first into the egg wash, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs firmly onto the chicken to adhere well.
6. Arrange on baking sheet: Place the breaded chicken breasts evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even baking.
7. Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. Add marinara and cheese: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Finish baking: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve immediately: Remove from the oven and serve the baked chicken Parmesan hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Pounding chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and stay moist.
• For a lower fat version, use part-skim mozzarella or reduce cheese slightly.
• Serve with pasta or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Keywords: Baked Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, Oven Baked Chicken, Italian Chicken Recipe, Easy Chicken Dinner