Baked Chicken Parmesan – Crispy, Cheesy, and So Easy

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that seamlessly marries tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, golden crust and a rich, tangy marinara sauce, all topped with melty, gooey cheese. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying, but it also offers a healthier twist compared to its fried counterpart, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, this baked version of Chicken Parmesan is sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will fall in love with this Baked Chicken Parmesan for several reasons! First and foremost, the flavors are absolutely divine; the savory herb-infused breadcrumbs perfectly complement the juicy chicken and zesty marinara sauce, creating a delightful symphony of tastes. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing even novice cooks to impress their family and friends. Additionally, this dish fits beautifully into a lighter diet because it’s baked rather than fried, making it a healthier option while still delivering all the comfort of a classic Italian meal.

Tips and Tricks

To make your Baked Chicken Parmesan even more delightful, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch. This helps to ensure that they cook uniformly without drying out.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the flavor profile significantly. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried ones can work in a pinch, but fresh is always best.
• Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to mix in some provolone or fontina for added depth of flavor.
• Shortcut with Store-bought Sauce: If you’re short on time, using a high-quality store-bought marinara sauce can save you prep time without sacrificing taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your Baked Chicken Parmesan turns out perfectly:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep a close eye on the cooking time. Overcooked chicken can be dry and chewy, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F).
• Skipping the Resting Period: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
• Using Soggy Breadcrumbs: Ensure the breadcrumbs are completely dry. You can toast them lightly in the oven before using them for extra crunch.

Make Ahead Tips

For those busy days when you need to save time, here are some make-ahead tips:

• Prep the Chicken: You can bread the chicken and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Make the Sauce Ahead: If you’re making your own marinara sauce, it can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it before using.
• Freezing: Baked Chicken Parmesan can also be frozen after baking. Just let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in foil, and store it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to three months.

Recipe Variations

Here are some delicious variations to switch things up:

• Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken atop spiralized zucchini noodles instead of pasta.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
• Stuffed Chicken: For a gourmet twist, stuff the chicken breasts with spinach and ricotta cheese before breading and baking.

How to Serve

To serve your Baked Chicken Parmesan beautifully, place a portion on a plate and spoon extra marinara sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of spaghetti, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad. Plating it with a colorful side will enhance its visual appeal and make it a feast for the eyes.

Pairing Suggestions

Complete your meal with ideal drink pairings and complementary sides:

• Wine: A glass of Chianti or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of Chicken Parmesan.
• Cocktails: A light spritzer or an Italian Negroni can also complement the dish nicely.
• Sides: Serve with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or garlic-roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.

How to Store

To keep your leftovers fresh:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Reheating: To reheat, place in an oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but the oven will keep the coating crispy.

Equipment Needed

You will need a few essential kitchen tools to make this dish:

• Baking Sheet: A rimmed baking sheet will catch any drips.
• Meat Mallet: For pounding the chicken evenly.
• Three-Shallow Dishes: For the breading process.
• Oven Thermometer: To ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.

Dietary Adaptations

For those with dietary restrictions, here are some adaptations:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and a plant-based milk for the egg wash.
• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for eggplant slices or chickpea patties, and use vegan cheese.

Seasonal Adaptations

To keep your dish fresh and seasonal:

• Spring: Add some fresh asparagus or peas to your marinara for a touch of spring.
• Summer: Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a vibrant flavor.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted butternut squash cubes into the marinara sauce for a warm, comforting twist.

Cost Breakdown

This dish is quite budget-friendly, with an estimated cost of around $10 for four servings. By buying chicken in bulk or on sale, and using store-brand products for marinara sauce and cheese, you can easily make this meal even more affordable.

Kitchen Hacks

Here are some handy kitchen hacks to streamline your cooking process:

• Peeling Garlic: Smash the garlic clove with the side of your knife; the skin will slip right off.
• Quick Breadcrumbs: If you have stale bread, toss it in the food processor for instant breadcrumbs.
• Cheese Grating: Freeze your cheese for about 15 minutes before grating; it will be easier to shred and less messy.

Recipe FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions:

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, bone-in or boneless chicken thighs work well, but ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• How long do I bake the chicken? Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
• Can I make this recipe in advance? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, and just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Yield: 4

Baked Chicken Parmesan

Print

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that seamlessly marries tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, golden crust and a rich, tangy marinara sauce, all topped with melty, gooey cheese. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying, but it also offers a healthier twist compared to its fried counterpart, making it a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. 

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In one shallow dish, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Set aside.
3. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 inch. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
7. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 581Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 233mgSodium 1571mgCarbohydrates 36gFiber 4gSugar 9gProtein 58g

Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Final Thoughts

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a simple yet impressive dish that can easily fit into your weekly meal rotation. With its comforting flavors and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for both family dinners and entertaining guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the various adaptations and tips provided, this dish will surely become a favorite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade Chicken Parmesan that’s both satisfying and heartwarming!