Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-inspired main dish featuring crispy breaded chicken breasts topped with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Baking instead of frying makes it a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing the rich flavors and satisfying textures of traditional chicken Parmesan.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 2 boneless chicken breasts, halved
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Prepare Coating: In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful breading mixture.
- Dip Chicken: Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Dip each halved chicken breast first into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even layer on all sides.
- Arrange Chicken: Place the breaded chicken pieces in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken to help crisp up the coating while baking.
- Bake Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the coating turns golden and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken piece, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot, pairing well with spaghetti or garlic bread.
Notes
- Pair this dish with spaghetti or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- For an extra crispy coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
