Golden Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Craveable Classic Reimagined! 🍽️🍗✨
1. Introduction
If you’re a fan of Italian-inspired comfort food, you’ll love this Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe. This oven-baked twist transforms the classic chicken dish into a healthier, easier, and equally delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this chicken parmesan recipe offers crispy, flavorful chicken topped with melted cheese and rich marinara sauce — all without the fuss of deep frying.
Discover how simple it is to make an easy Chicken Parmesan at home that rivals your favorite Italian restaurants. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process and tips for that perfect golden crust and tender chicken.
2. Ingredients Needed for this Craveable Chicken Parmesan
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
For a healthier twist, consider using baked chicken pieces with whole wheat bread crumbs or adding extra vegetables for a nutritious boost.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfectly Baked Chicken Parmesan
Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin, which ensures even cooking and tender results. Season them with salt and pepper.
Breading the Chicken
In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. In another dish, combine bread crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Baking the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Adding the Cheese and Marinara
Remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella. Return to the oven and bake an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Your Chicken Parmesan
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve your crispy baked chicken parmesan over spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or your favorite pasta. Optionally, add a side of garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
4. Tips for making the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- For a quicker option, use store-bought marinara sauce.
- Searing the chicken prior to baking helps develop flavor and texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.
5. Storage & Reheating Tips
Leftover baked chicken parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or use a microwave for quick reheating. For best results, reheat in the oven to keep the cheese melty and crust crispy.
6. Delicious Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked chicken parmesan with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a cheesy garlic bread. This dish also complements a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, prepares the chicken up to the breading stage, store it covered in the refrigerator, then bake and assemble when ready to serve.
What are good substitutions for cheese?
For a dairy-free version, use vegan cheese or omit cheese entirely, adding extra marinara for flavor.
How long does it take to prepare this baked chicken parmesan?
The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free bread crumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free for a safe gluten-free option.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Bake and cook with ease, achieving perfect results in your kitchen.
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Perfect for making refreshing beverages to pair with your Italian dishes.
- KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer – Essential for mixing or preparing side dishes like mashed potatoes or pasta.
- Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – A versatile tool for healthier cooking options or reheating leftovers.
Investing in quality kitchen tools can elevate your cooking experience and make preparing delicious chicken parmesan even more enjoyable.
9. Conclusion
This Golden Baked Chicken Parmesan is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of the classic Italian dish without the mess and hassle of frying. With crispy breaded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful marinara, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Plus, it’s easily adaptable to various dietary preferences and can be prepared ahead of time for busy weeknights. Give this easy Chicken Parmesan recipe a try tonight — your taste buds will thank you!
For more delicious dinner ideas, explore our dinner collection and find your new favorite dishes.
Print
Golden Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Craveable Classic Reimagined!
Enjoy the delicious comfort of classic Italian flavors with our Golden Baked Chicken Parmesan. This healthier, oven-baked version features crispy breaded chicken topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, all prepared with simple ingredients for an easy and satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe combines tenderness, crunch, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Flatten chicken breasts uniformly using a meat mallet or rolling pin, then season with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another dish, combine bread crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breaded chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped basil or parsley, then serve hot over pasta, zucchini noodles, or your favorite side.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture.
- Opt for store-bought marinara sauce for convenience.
- Searing the chicken prior to baking enhances flavor and crispiness.
- Let the baked chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in juices before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Nut-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 420 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
1 thought on “Golden Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Craveable Classic Reimagined!”