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Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

This Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite by baking instead of frying. Featuring tender boneless chicken breasts coated in a savory blend of Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, this dish delivers a crispy, flavorful experience perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Breading

  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs mixed with 1 teaspoon Italian herbs)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Topping

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Alternative Options

  • Chicken thighs in place of breasts for juicier meat
  • Crushed cornflakes as a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative
  • Pesto or Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for different flavor profiles

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build the base flavor.
  3. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and garlic powder.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Coat each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure an even, crispy coating.
  5. Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to encourage even browning and crispiness.
  6. Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven, spoon marinara sauce evenly over the top of each piece, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  7. Return to Oven: Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  8. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately with pasta, salad, or your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, use crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs and ensure marinara sauce is gluten-free.
  • Chicken thighs can be substituted for chicken breasts for a juicier texture but may require slightly longer cooking time.
  • Homemade marinara sauce will add freshness and depth, but store-bought works well for convenience.
  • Allow cooked chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken parmesan, crispy chicken parmesan, easy chicken parmesan, healthy chicken parmesan, Italian chicken recipe, baked chicken breast

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/easy-crispy-baked-chicken-parmesan-recipe/