Baked Chicken Parmesan

ken Parmesan

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Start by preparing your chicken breasts. If they are too thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets, which will cook more evenly and faster. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This basic seasoning helps bring out the natural flavor of the chicken.

2. Set Up Your Breading Station

Create a breading station with three shallow bowls:

• In the first bowl, place the flour.
• In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
• In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

3. Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting any excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a nice, even coating.

4. Bake the Chicken

Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the breaded chicken breasts onto the sheet, making sure they’re not overcrowded.

Drizzle a little olive oil over the top of the chicken or spray it lightly with cooking spray. This helps to crisp up the breadcrumbs as they bake.

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is baked and crispy, take it out of the oven. Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce onto each chicken breast, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top of each piece with shredded mozzarella cheese.

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

6. Serve and Garnish

Once the cheese is melted, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a fresh, herby finish.

Serve the baked chicken parmesan hot with a side of pasta, a simple salad, or some garlic bread. It’s a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan

1. Panko Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a lighter, crunchier coating that holds up beautifully when baked.
2. Pre-cook the Chicken for Extra Crispiness: If you like an extra crispy crust, you can quickly sear the breaded chicken in a hot skillet with a bit of oil before baking. This will give the chicken a golden, crispy finish.
3. Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an even creamier, more authentic flavor, try using fresh mozzarella instead of shredded mozzarella. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully and adds a rich, gooey texture.
4. Homemade Marinara Sauce: While store-bought marinara works fine, making your own homemade marinara sauce can elevate this dish even more. Use fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and herbs for a more vibrant, homemade flavor.
5. Make it a Meal: For a more filling meal, serve the baked chicken parmesan with a side of pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni) tossed in extra marinara sauce or a simple garlic butter sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad will round out the meal nicely.
6. Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken ahead of time by breading it and storing it in the fridge for a few hours before baking. This will make the meal come together even quicker when you’re ready to cook.

Healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan

While traditional chicken parmesan can be a bit heavy, this baked version is a lighter alternative that still packs in all the delicious flavor. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you reduce the amount of oil used, making the dish less greasy. You can also adjust the cheese to your liking—using less cheese or opting for a reduced-fat mozzarella if you’re looking for a lower-calorie version.

Conclusion: A Deliciously Simple Meal

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a fantastic dish that combines the best of Italian-American comfort food with a healthier twist. It’s quick, easy, and filled with all the flavors you love — crispy chicken, savory marinara, and melty cheese. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides, making it a great choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting, satisfying flavors of homemade Baked Chicken Parmesan tonight!