Perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan
This baked chicken parmesan recipe delivers all the classic flavors you love without the mess of frying. Tender chicken breasts are coated in crispy Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, baked to perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. It's an easy and satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- 3 shallow dishes or pie plates
- Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin
- Plastic wrap or zip-top bag
- Medium bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
- Spatula
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil optional
- Olive oil spray optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Pound each chicken breast to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels.
- Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumb mixture.
- In a medium bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Working with one chicken breast at a time, dredge it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, making sure it's fully coated. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray (optional).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Spread about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Top with about 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese per breast.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil (if using). Serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.