This Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan gives you juicy chicken with a crunchy coating, all topped with melty cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
You won’t believe how simple it is to make. Just coat the chicken, bake it, and sprinkle some cheese on top—dinner sorted! Plus, who can say no to extra cheese? 😋
I love serving this with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. It’s a hit with everyone, and I feel like a kitchen superstar with barely any effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. You can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite or even switch to turkey for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor, but if you don’t have them, plain breadcrumbs with some Italian herbs mixed in works fine. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: The grated Parmesan enhances the flavor of the breading. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast will give a similar cheesy effect.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade is even better! You can also swap marinara for pesto or Alfredo sauce, depending on your taste.
How Do You Ensure a Crispy Coating?
Achieving that crispy, golden coating is key for this chicken Parmesan! Follow these steps for the best results:
- First, pound chicken breasts to the same thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
- After dipping in eggs, make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. This helps it stick during baking.
- Drizzling olive oil or melted butter on the breaded chicken before baking is a game-changer. It promotes browning and crispiness.
- Bake until golden brown, then add marinara and cheese. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to avoid overcooking.
Easy Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Eggs:
- 2 large eggs
For the Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Additional Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, with a total time of around 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, mix the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mix will give your chicken a great flavor and crunch!
3. Beat the Eggs:
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs well. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
4. Flatten the Chicken:
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook more evenly!
5. Dredge the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down a bit to ensure the coating sticks well.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle a bit of olive oil or melted butter over each piece to promote a crispy coating.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. You want it to be golden brown and crispy!
8. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven and spoon the marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Final Baking:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove from the oven. If you’d like, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delicious chicken Parmesan hot, alongside pasta, a crisp salad, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful dish. Just make sure they are boneless and skinless for the best results in this recipe.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can! You can bread the chicken and place it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions, adding a few minutes if it’s still chilled.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with some Italian herbs and spices like oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Alternatively, crushed cornflakes or panko can give you a nice crispy texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, place it in the oven to help keep that crispy texture, or use a microwave for a quicker option. Just be aware it may not be as crispy in the microwave!