When I first tried making Oven Bаked Chicken Parmesan it was a bit messy , but turned out delicious . This Italian -American classic uses breaded chicken cutlets , tomato sauce and lots of cheese . Its simple to bake instead of fry and saves you oil and time . Whether it's for a rushed weeknight or a chill weekend dinner , you'll love how the cheese melts and the breading stays crispy .
Chicken Parmesan , also known as Chicken Parmigiana , is a dish filled with juicy chicken , tangy marinara and gooey cheese . Instead of frying in lots of oil , we bake it in the oven for crispiness without all the grease . Plus it's easy enough for anyone to try , even if you’re not a pro cook .
Benefits of Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Baking chicken instead of frying cuts down on unhealthy oils , so you end up with a lighter meal that still tastes rich and comforting . It’s great for folks who want to eat healthier but don't want to give up tasty classics .
Another big plus is that you don’t have to stand at the stove flipping each cutlet . Just pop everythin into the oven , set a timer and you’re free to make a salad or relax for a bit . That makes this recipe perfect for busy nights or when you’re entertaining friends.
You can serve this Chicken Parmesan with spaghetti , garlic bread or a fresh green salad , or even put it in a sandwich for a fun twist . Its flexible enough to fit any meal plan or taste .
Ingredients for Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless , skinless breasts are best for even cooking and easy slicing .
- Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned ones for flavor or panko if you want extra crunch .
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a nutty kick you can’t beat .
- Marinara Sauce: A good jarred sauce or homemade marinara works fine .
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella brings that perfect melty texture .
- Eggs: Beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken cutlets .
Optional Ingredients
- Garlic Powder: A dash adds extra garlick flavor .
- Dried Oregano/Basil: Sprinkle for an herby aroma .
- Olive Oil: A light drizzle helps the crust turn golden .
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley makes a nice garnish .
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Before you start , gather these tools so you don’t gotta stop half way and search the kitchen :
- Baking Dish: A sheet pan or casserole dish works fine .
- Shallow Bowls: For your egg wash and breadcrumb mix .
- Whisk: To beat eggs until smooth .
- Oven Thermometer: Makes sure your oven is at the right temp .
- Meat Thermometer: Check that chicken hits 165°F so it’s safe to eat .
Directions for Making Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Follow these steps for crispy , cheesy perfection :
1. Prep the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) . Pound chicken breasts to about ½ inch thickness so they cook evenly . Set up two shallow bowls : one with beaten eggs and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and any seasonings you like .
2. Coat the Cutlets
Dip each chicken piece in the egg wash , let extra drip off , then press into the breadcrumb mix until it’s fully covered . Lay them spaced out in your baking dish and drizzle lightly with olive oil .
3. Bake and Add Sauce
Bake 20 minutes , then pull the dish out and spoon marinara over each cutlet . Sprinkle with mozzarella and return to oven for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and chicken reads 165°F on a meat thermometer .
4. Serve
Let rest a few minutes , then garnish with parsley . Serve with pasta , bread or salad and dig in .
OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN
Equipment
- 1 baking dish (9x13 inches)
- 2 shallow bowls
- 1 cooking spray
- 1 meat mallet or rolling pin
- 1 oven
- 1 small saucepan for warming marinara sauce
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts About 1.5 pounds total.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 piece egg Beaten.
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- as needed olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, place the beaten egg.
- Dip each chicken breast first in the egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Spray the tops of the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil cooking spray.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
- While the chicken is baking, warm the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat.
- After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts, then top each with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
