Simple Baked Chicken Parmesan featuring succulent chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey cheese with a crunchy crust that is simply delightful! This dish is baked instead of fried, and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes!
Table of Contents
This recipe encompasses all the elements of traditional Chicken Parmesan, but skips the heavy breading and frying! Juicy chicken is topped with a tasty marinara and gooey cheese baked to perfection with a healthy coating that’s both wholesome and delectable. No olive oil required. This is the ultimate baked chicken parmesan that’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. An effortless chicken dinner that your entire family will adore!
Why You’ll Adore This
- Healthier – this chicken parmesan variant is baked, not fried, utilizing simple, wholesome ingredients. Achieves crispiness without frying!
- Rich in Protein – chicken breast is naturally protein-rich and low in fat, making this a fantastic recipe to meet your protein needs.
- Family-friendly – this recipe is a surefire hit that the entire family will cherish! The ideal uncomplicated weeknight dinner.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – leftovers reheat perfectly, making this an excellent choice for meal preparation.
Ingredients You’ll Require
- chicken – I opted for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but chicken tenders would also work wonderfully.
- breadcrumbs – I used whole wheat panko breadcrumbs essential for that crunchy outer layer. Lightly toasting the breadcrumbs before coating can add extra crispiness.
- marinara – I prefer a high-quality, low-sugar marinara like Rao’s tomato sauce, or you can prepare my family’s favorite homemade sauce!
- eggs – needed as a binder for the breadcrumbs to adhere to the chicken, ensuring a delicious crispy coating.
- cheese – this recipe features both freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh slices of mozzarella cheese. You can also use shredded mozzarella if preferred.
- flaxseed meal – provides a nutritional boost and fiber without altering the flavor of the chicken.
- fresh basil – adds a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor just before serving.
- seasonings – a blend of Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Steps to Prepare Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken horizontally and place it between layers of plastic wrap. Utilize a meat tenderizer, mallet, or rolling pin to pound the chicken cutlets to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture. Set up a dredging station. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, flaxseed meal, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a separate dish, whisk the eggs until frothy.
- Coat the chicken. Immerse each chicken cutlet into the egg wash, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, fully coating both sides. Transfer to a prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
- Bake. Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken with cooking spray and bake in the oven at 425 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, until juices run clear and are fully cooked.
- Add cheese. Once golden brown, spoon approximately 1/4 cup of marinara sauce on each chicken breast topped with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and relish. Garnish chicken with fresh basil and serve with cooked spaghetti noodles and extra sauce. Enjoy!
Preparing in the Air Fryer
You can conveniently create crispy chicken parmesan in the air fryer by preheating it to 400 degrees for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Top with sauce and cheese and cook a few additional minutes in the air fryer or oven until the cheese is melted! A fantastic way to achieve crispy chicken using less oil.
Suggestions for the Best Chicken Parmesan
- Pound chicken uniformly – consistent thickness guarantees the chicken cooks evenly and remains juicy. Aim for a 1/2-inch thickness.
- Pat the chicken dry – this crucial step aids the egg and breadcrumb mixture to adhere properly.
- Avoid excessive sauce – applying too much marinara sauce can lead to a soggy crust. Spoon just enough to lightly coat the chicken before adding the cheese.
- Broil at the end – for the ultimate bubbly, golden cheese finish, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking. Monitor carefully to prevent burning.
- Allow chicken to rest – resting the chicken for 5 minutes before serving locks in those juices.
Variations
- Gluten-free – to make this gluten-free, utilize gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- Low-carb – for a lower carb option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour combined with extra parmesan cheese.
- Vegetarian – try my eggplant parmesan recipe, which can be prepared in the air fryer or baked in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
- Spaghetti – this is the traditional way to serve chicken parmesan on a bed of pasta tossed in warm marinara sauce with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
- Veggies – zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash serve as lighter options with additional nutritional benefits and fewer carbs.
- Sandwich – place it on toasted ciabatta or hoagie rolls with extra marinara sauce, cheese, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a mouthwatering crispy chicken parm sandwich.
- Side salad – pair chicken parmigiana with a healthy Caesar salad or a refreshing chopped salad.
- Family-style – double or triple this recipe for larger gatherings, and present the baked chicken on a large serving platter with pasta in a separate bowl.
Preparation and Storage
Leftover chicken parmesan can be stored in a sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350 degrees F for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, though this may soften the crust.
More Baked Chicken Recipes
Hope you thoroughly enjoy this healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan! If you appreciate this recipe as much as we do, kindly leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating below and make sure to tag me on Instagram using the hashtag #eatyourselfskinny!
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Slice the chicken horizontally and place it between plastic wrap. Using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin, pound each piece to about 1/2 inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
In a shallow dish, blend breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, flaxseed meal, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs until frothy.
Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture and press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
Spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until juices run clear and are fully cooked.
Once golden, top each piece with 1/4 cup of marinara sauce and one slice of mozzarella cheese (or more if desired). Return to the oven for 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Top the chicken with fresh basil and serve it over cooked spaghetti noodles and extra marinara sauce. Enjoy!
Serving: 1chicken breast | Calories: 281kcal | Carbohydrates: 9.4g | Protein: 35.2g | Fat: 10.8g | Saturated Fat: 3.3g | Cholesterol: 162.3mg | Sodium: 552mg | Fiber: 2.2g | Sugar: 2.1g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
**Delicious and Simple Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe**
Chicken Parmesan is an iconic Italian-American meal that merges tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese into a scrumptious delight. This baked adaptation is not only easy to make but also serves as a healthier substitute to the classical fried approach. Here’s how to whip up this delightful dish at home.
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Salt and pepper for seasoning
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or apply a non-stick spray.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:**
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. If they are thick, consider flattening them for a more even cooking process.
3. **Set Up the Breading Station:**
Place the flour in a shallow dish. Beat the eggs in another dish. In yet another dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese together.
4. **Bread the Chicken:**
Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, removing excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
5. **Bake the Chicken:**
Arrange the breaded chicken in the prepared baking dish. Lightly spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
6. **Add Sauce and Cheese:**
Remove the chicken from the oven. Pour marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
7. **Finish Baking:**
Return it to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly cooked (the internal temperature should be 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. **Garnish and Serve:**
Take it from the oven and let it settle for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot, preferably with pasta, a salad, or crispy bread.
**Success Tips:**
– **Utilize Fresh Ingredients:** Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality mozzarella elevate the dish’s flavor.
– **Customize the Breadcrumbs:** For additional flavor, consider mixing garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs into the breadcrumbs.
– **Make it Healthier:** Use whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko for a healthier modification.
This baked Chicken Parmesan recipe is a popular choice that’s excellent for a family meal or special occasions. Its ease and delightful taste keep it a favorite in many homes. Relish this comforting dish with your preferred sides and experience the rich Italian flavors in your own kitchen.
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