Description
This Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken dish that's perfect for a comforting dinner. Chicken breasts are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, baked to golden perfection, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, delivering classic Italian flavors with a healthier baked twist.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 pieces)
Bread Crumb Mixture
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (such as 4C, or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Romano cheese)
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter (melted, or olive oil)
- 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded, Polly-o recommended)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Cooking spray
- Basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Bread Crumb Coating: In a medium bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, melt the butter or use olive oil. Lightly brush each chicken piece with the melted butter, then dip it thoroughly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly. Place the coated chicken onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Chicken: Lightly spray the top of the coated chicken pieces with more cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the coating to turn golden and the chicken to cook through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Finish Baking: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese has melted and is bubbly. Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute butter with olive oil for a slightly healthier option.
- Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content.
- Serve with pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Make sure chicken pieces are pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American