Baked Chicken Parmesan
When I first made Baked Chicken Parmesan in my kitchen, I couldn’t help but remember the countless family dinners where my grandmother would prepare this dish. The scent of the crispy chicken, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella filled the house, instantly bringing everyone together. As a kid, I was always amazed by how something so simple could bring so much joy, and now, making it in my own kitchen feels like a warm hug. This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about memories, love, and sharing good times with loved ones.
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Baked Chicken Parmesan
This Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe is the perfect combination of crispy breading, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a healthier twist on the traditional fried version, as we bake the chicken for a lighter but equally delicious outcome. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests on special occasions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
½ cup whole wheat flour
3 large eggs
1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs (unseasoned)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1.5 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Olive oil spray (for greasing)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it in half horizontally, creating thinner cutlets. Then, cover the chicken with plastic wrap and use a meat tenderizer to pound the chicken to about ¼ inch thickness. This step helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly.Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray the parchment with olive oil to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick.Set Up the Breading Station:
Set up three shallow bowls:In the first bowl, add whole wheat flour.
In the second bowl, whisk together 3 eggs.
In the third bowl, combine whole wheat bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, dried basil, and dried parsley.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, followed by the breading mixture. Press the breading onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well. Repeat with all the chicken cutlets.Bake the Chicken:
Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, flip each cutlet, and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through.Add Sauce and Cheese:
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Baked Chicken Parmesan over pasta, with a salad, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Notes
Chicken Cutlets: If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut chicken cutlets for ease.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara sauce or make your own from scratch for an extra flavorful touch.
Mozzarella: For the best texture, use fresh mozzarella. However, pre-shredded mozzarella works fine too.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze the breaded chicken before baking. Just make sure to bake from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Today, I’m excited to share this Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe with you, so you can create these cherished memories too. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe will never disappoint. Let’s dive in!
For another cheesy favorite, try our Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps — quick, cheesy, and perfect for busy nights.
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a classic comfort food, but with a healthier twist. Instead of frying the chicken, we bake it to achieve that crispy texture without all the extra fat.
Ingredients for the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan
You don’t need to hunt down special ingredients for this dish. What makes Baked Chicken Parmesan stand out is how its simplicity combines to create an incredibly flavorful meal. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 3 large chicken breasts or 1.5 lbs of chicken cutlets)
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1.5 cups marinara sauce
Breading Mixture:
- 1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs (unseasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Extra grated Parmesan for added cheesiness
If you love crispy chicken, you’ll enjoy the Crispy Chinese Honey Garlic Chicken, which has a perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Chicken Parmesan
Making Baked Chicken Parmesan isn’t as complicated as it sounds! It’s all about following the steps and letting the flavors come together. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Step 1: Butterfly and Pound the Chicken
The first thing you’ll want to do is prepare the chicken. To ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender, butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally (like opening a book). Once sliced, place the chicken between plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat tenderizer to gently pound the chicken to about ¼ inch thick. This step is key to keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You should now have six chicken cutlets.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
Once your chicken is ready, set up a breading station. You’ll need three shallow bowls:
- The first will hold the whole wheat flour.
- The second will contain the beaten eggs.
- The third bowl is for the breading mixture, which consists of whole wheat bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, dried basil, and dried parsley.
This “assembly line” approach helps the breading process go smoothly. Dip each chicken cutlet into the flour, followed by the egg, and then coat it with the breading mixture. Be sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange your breaded chicken cutlets on the sheet. Bake them for 15 minutes, flip the cutlets over, and bake for another 15 minutes. The chicken will become golden and crispy without needing to fry it, making it a lighter yet still delicious version of traditional Chicken Parmesan.
Step 4: Add the Sauce and Cheese
After the chicken has baked for 30 minutes, it’s time to add the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Spoon approximately ¼ cup of marinara sauce over each chicken cutlet, and top it with about ¼ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the chicken to the oven, but this time set the oven to broil for 2 minutes. The cheese should melt and turn golden brown, creating that irresistible gooey top layer.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Now that your Baked Chicken Parmesan is complete, it’s time to serve. Pair it with some spaghetti, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also garnish with fresh basil leaves or sprinkle extra Parmesan for that cheesy finish.
For a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy, try this Baked Chicken Parmesan. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering!
Add a comforting side dish with our Classic Southern Potato Salad that pairs beautifully with any chicken dinner.
Making a Healthier Version of Baked Chicken Parmesan
If you’re looking to make this classic dish a bit lighter, don’t worry! You can tweak a few things to keep it healthy without sacrificing flavor:
1. Choose Leaner Chicken Cuts
Opt for skinless chicken breasts or chicken cutlets instead of chicken thighs to reduce the fat content. If you prefer a different protein, turkey cutlets work well as an alternative.
2. Use Lower-Fat Mozzarella
Instead of full-fat mozzarella, use part-skim mozzarella to cut down on the overall fat and calorie count. You can also decrease the amount of cheese used and still enjoy the flavor, or use a stronger cheese for more impact with less quantity.
3. Opt for Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs
Whole wheat bread crumbs add a bit more fiber and nutrients compared to regular white bread crumbs, which makes them a healthier choice. Additionally, if you’re following a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
4. Pair with Vegetables or Salad
Instead of serving Baked Chicken Parmesan with pasta, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A healthy side dish will balance out the meal and add extra vitamins and fiber.
For more details on how to make healthier food choices, you can explore this Wikipedia article on healthy diets.
If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious dinner, Baked Chicken Parmesan is the way to go. The combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella is unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Can I Make Chicken Parmesan Without Frying?
This recipe uses the oven to bake the chicken, which creates a crispy coating without the need to fry it in oil. By baking, you still achieve a golden, crunchy texture but with far fewer calories and fat.
Can I Freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes! If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can bread the chicken and freeze the cutlets before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
If you don’t have marinara sauce, you can substitute with a different tomato-based sauce, like a chunky tomato basil sauce or a simple homemade tomato sauce. The dish will still taste amazing!
For an Italian twist, try the Greek Sheet Pan Chicken — baked to perfection with Mediterranean flavors.
One of the best things about Baked Chicken Parmesan is how versatile it is. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or even on a bed of leafy greens for a lighter meal.
The History of Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, has its roots in Italian-American cuisine, although it’s based on a classic Italian dish called Melanzane alla Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan). Eggplant Parmesan has been around since at least the 19th century, and when Italian immigrants came to America, they adapted the recipe by using chicken instead of eggplant. This new version quickly became a beloved comfort food, especially in Italian-American households.
Today, Chicken Parmesan is a staple in many restaurants, but it can also be made at home to enjoy that same delicious experience. It’s a dish that not only tastes great but also brings people together over shared memories and good times.
Why You Should Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Tonight
Baked Chicken Parmesan isn’t just another meal; it’s a dish that holds a special place in many families’ hearts. It’s comforting, satisfying, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner with loved ones or for a dinner party with friends, this dish will always be a hit.
The beauty of Baked Chicken Parmesan is how easy it is to make, yet it feels special enough to serve at a gathering. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and memorable.
So go ahead and try this Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness while you make new memories with your family and friends.
If you’re craving a casserole-style meal, the Million Dollar Baked Chicken Breast is cheesy and comforting.
This version of Baked Chicken Parmesan is lighter than the traditional fried version but still full of flavor. You’ll love how crispy the chicken gets without the added calories.
