OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN
This Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a delicious, healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting dinner that pleases the whole family!
Equipment
- 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
- 3 shallow bowls
- 1 cooking spray or olive oil
- 1 meat mallet or rolling pin
- 1 whisk
- 1 oven mitts
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds total.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Seasoned with salt and pepper.
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Preferably Italian-style.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- to taste fresh basil or parsley for garnish Optional.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In the first shallow bowl, place the flour seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and top each breast with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, let the chicken cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
This dish pairs well with pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables. Adjust the marinara sauce to your preference for a saucier dish. Enjoy!