Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe – Easy, Flavorful & Family-Friendly!

Craving a comforting Italian classic but looking for a healthier twist? Baked Chicken Parmesan delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness of the traditional dish—without the extra oil from frying.

Juicy, tender chicken breasts are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a rich marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this baked version is lighter yet just as satisfying.

Serve it over pasta for a classic pairing, or opt for zucchini noodles or a fresh salad for a low-carb alternative.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this Baked Chicken Parmesan is sure to become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative – Enjoy all the crispiness of traditional Chicken Parmesan without frying.

Incredibly Flavorful – A combination of garlic, herbs, and Parmesan creates a rich, savory coating.

Easy to Make – Simple steps with minimal prep make this a perfect weeknight dinner.

Family-Friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

Great for Meal Prep – Leftovers store well and reheat beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise for thinner cutlets)
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and slice them in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. This ensures even cooking and a crispy coating.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

• In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
• In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

• Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
• Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

• Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
• Drizzle or lightly spray olive oil over the top to enhance crispiness.
• Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)).

Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese

• Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese and Serve

• Return the chicken to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!

• Top with fresh basil, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• Serve over pasta, zucchini noodles, or alongside a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan

1. Use Thin Chicken Cutlets

Slicing the chicken breasts in half ensures they cook quickly and evenly, preventing dry chicken.

2. Don’t Skip the Olive Oil

A light drizzle or spray of olive oil helps achieve a crispy, golden crust without frying.

3. Bake on a Wire Rack

Placing the chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet allows heat to circulate evenly, keeping the bottom crispy instead of soggy.

4. Let the Coating Adhere

For the best crispy coating, let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before baking. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better.

5. Use High-Quality Marinara and Cheese

A rich, flavorful marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella elevate the dish’s taste. Opt for freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting.

6. Don’t Overload the Sauce

Too much marinara can make the breading soggy. Use just enough to coat each piece lightly.

7. Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving

Resting the chicken for a couple of minutes helps retain its juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.

Storing and Reheating

How to Store Leftover Baked Chicken Parmesan

• Refrigeration: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, place cooled chicken on a baking sheet to flash freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Without Losing Crispiness

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Microwave (Not Recommended): While quick, this method may make the coating soggy. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals and finish in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delicious, healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, offering the same crispy texture and rich flavors with less oil.

Whether you’re serving it over pasta, zoodles, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

With easy preparation, simple ingredients, and make-ahead options, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Follow the tips to achieve the crispiest coating, and don’t forget to store and reheat properly for the best leftovers.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting, homemade Italian classic!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness. Adjust the baking time slightly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe remains the same.

3. Can I prepare Baked Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 12 hours before baking. For freezing, bread the chicken, place it on a tray to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

4. What’s the best way to keep the breading from falling off?

Let the breaded chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere. Also, avoid moving the chicken too much while baking.

5. What can I serve with Baked Chicken Parmesan?

Pair it with classic spaghetti, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, a crisp Caesar salad, or even mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option.