Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 large eggs; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs); Olive oil spray; Salt and pepper, to taste

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender chicken breasts coated in crunchy breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection, and topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. This wholesome dinner is easy to prepare and bursting with comforting, family-friendly flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delightful way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite without the guilt of deep-frying. The chicken stays juicy and tender, while the panko coating delivers a satisfying crunch. Topped with rich marinara and gooey mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent yet is lightened up by baking. Perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners, this dish is simple to customize, pairs beautifully with pasta or veggies, and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a wholesome, heartwarming meal that everyone will adore.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Pound Chicken Evenly: Use a meat mallet to pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Use Panko for Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Don’t Skip the Oil Spray: Lightly spraying the coated chicken ensures a golden, crispy exterior.
Check Internal Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Broil for Cheese Perfection: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end to get bubbly, golden mozzarella.
Rest Before Serving: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain juiciness.
Fresh Marinara Matters: Use high-quality store-bought or homemade marinara for the best flavor.
Avoid Soggy Coating: Place chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet to promote air circulation.

Yield: 4 Servings

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan: a healthy, golden-crusted chicken dish with marinara and mozzarella, perfect for cozy dinners.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 large eggs
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
Olive oil spray
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on it for extra crispiness.
Prepare the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Set Up Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mix of panko, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning in the third.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in egg, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Bake the Chicken: Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon ¼ cup marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Broil for Perfection: Switch oven to broil and cook for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Rest and Garnish: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Serve and Enjoy: Plate with a side of pasta, zucchini noodles, or a fresh salad for a wholesome, delicious meal!

Notes

Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
For a lighter dish, serve with a side of roasted vegetables instead of pasta.
Experiment with different cheeses or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 579Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 221mgSodium 1057mgCarbohydrates 40gFiber 3gSugar 6gProtein 55g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

Chicken Breasts (4, boneless, skinless): Choose evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking; pounding ensures tenderness.
Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Provides a light, crispy texture; regular breadcrumbs can be used but are less crunchy.
Eggs (2 large): Acts as a binding agent to help breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
All-purpose Flour (½ cup): Creates a base layer for the egg wash, ensuring even coating.
Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup, grated): Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the breadcrumb mixture; freshly grated is best.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Infuses classic herby notes; substitute with a mix of dried oregano and basil if needed.
Marinara Sauce (1 cup): Choose a robust, high-quality sauce for rich flavor; homemade adds a personal touch.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully for that classic Parmesan finish; fresh mozzarella works too.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances overall flavor; adjust based on preference.
Olive Oil Spray: Lightly coats chicken for crispiness without excess oil; substitute with avocado oil if desired.

Variations and Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan Alternative: Swap chicken for thick eggplant or zucchini slices and use vegan cheese and egg substitute.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix or marinara for a fiery twist.
Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly dish.
Cheese Swap: Use provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the breadcrumb mix for added freshness.
Sauce Alternatives: Try pesto or alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a unique spin.

Storage Options

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness. Freezing is possible for up to 2 months; wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes.