Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Ready-to-Serve

I love making Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan for a family dinner because it brings a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to the table. This dish combines tender chicken with a golden crust, all smothered in marinara sauce and gooey cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. I can’t resist the aroma wafting through the kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to wait before diving in. Plus, it's a healthier twist on the classic fried version, making it perfect for indulging without the guilt!

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:17:36.633Z

When I first tried making baked chicken Parmesan instead of the traditional fried version, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved it. It was crucial that the coating was crispy, so I used a combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. I learned that letting the chicken rest before baking helps to lock in the moisture, making it tender and juicy. Each layer, from the crispy crust to the hot marinara, complements the other perfectly.

Another tip I found useful is to ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures each piece is golden and satisfying. I also like to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving for that touch of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Flavorful coating of breadcrumbs and Parmesan for that perfect crunch
Healthier baked option without compromising on taste
Easy to make and can be prepared ahead for convenience

Perfecting the Chicken Preparation

To achieve that perfectly tender chicken, be diligent while pounding the breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly, avoiding any dry edges. A meat mallet or a rolling pin works well for this task; just remember to adjust your pressure to avoid tearing the meat. Aim for around 1/2 inch thickness—you’ll know it’s right when they feel uniformly smooth and slightly flattened.

After seasoning with salt and pepper, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This brief pause allows the flavors to penetrate. If you have time, marinating the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for about 30 minutes can deepen the flavors, though it’s not mandatory. Opting for free-range chicken can also enhance the overall taste and texture.

Tips for a Crunchy Coating

Achieving that signature crunch hinges on your breadcrumb mixture. I like to use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture; they’re larger and provide more surface area for browning. Mixing them with Parmesan not only boosts the flavor but also aids in forming an extra crispy crust as they bake. Ensure to coat each chicken piece generously—don’t skimp on the breadcrumbs.

For added flavor, consider incorporating Italian seasoning or garlic powder into your breadcrumb mix. It’ll enhance the savoriness without extra prep. If you run out of breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes can be a suitable substitute, lending a delightful crunch and unique flavor of their own.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

When serving my Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan, I love pairing it with a simple side salad or a hearty pasta dish coated in extra marinara sauce. For a complete meal, sauté some seasonal vegetables in garlic and olive oil as a vibrant accompaniment. This balances out the richness of the chicken and adds a nutritional punch.

If you have leftovers, they keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain that crispy texture. Freezing is also an option; just ensure each piece is wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

With these simple ingredients, you're ready to create a dish that's sure to impress!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Make the Coating

In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese together. Dip each chicken breast first into the egg, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.

Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20 minutes until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove chicken from the oven, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven. Let it sit for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve with pasta or a salad.

This easy-to-follow method will have you enjoying your homemade chicken Parmesan in no time!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy coating, try adding some Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also swap the marinara sauce for pesto for a different flavor profile.

Ingredient Variations

This recipe is versatile! If you're seeking a lower-calorie option, try using skinless turkey breasts instead of chicken. They will cook similarly; however, be more cautious of overcooking, as turkey can dry out more quickly. You could also swap out the marinara for pesto or a white sauce like Alfredo for a different flavor profile.

For a dairy-free or vegan version, use a suitable egg replacement like aquafaba for coating and switch to nutritional yeast mixed with breadcrumbs instead of cheese. It has a similar umami flavor that complements the crust exceptionally well.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken isn't browning as expected, check the temperature of your oven; it may be running cooler than indicated. Baking on the center rack is ideal for even cooking—too close to the bottom can prevent browning. If time permits, add a quick broil at the end for 2-3 minutes to achieve those golden edges.

Conversely, if the coating starts to brown too much before the chicken is cooked through, you can tent the dish with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while allowing the chicken to finish cooking safely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well; just adjust the cooking time as they might take a little longer than breasts.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and coating ahead of time. Assemble everything and store in the fridge until you're ready to bake.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad make excellent companions for Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan.