If you’re craving a dish that hits all the right notes of comfort and flavor, our Baked Chicken Parmesan is exactly what you need. This delightful dish combines juicy, breaded chicken with creamy mozzarella and a rich marinara sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Gourmet: Despite its sophisticated flavor profile, this Baked Chicken Parmesan is surprisingly easy to make.
- Family Favorite: It’s a dish that will please even the pickiest of eaters with its comforting cheesy goodness.
- Versatile Dining: Whether you’re serving it on a regular weeknight or a special occasion, it fits right in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients before starting can make all the difference. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor balance and texture, making this dish unforgettable.
- Chicken Breasts: Make sure they’re boneless and skinless for the best texture.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle depth that complements the marinara.
- Flour: Helps the breading adhere perfectly.
- Eggs: Used as a binding agent to hold the breadcrumbs on the chicken.
- Italian Bread Crumbs: Infuse the dish with robust Italian herb flavors.
- Parmesan Cheese: Provides a sharp, umami kick to the breading.
- Olive Oil and Butter: For frying, creating a golden, crispy crust.
- Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jar for ease and flavor.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey perfection over the chicken.
Variations
This recipe is a true chameleon, easily adaptable to fit your mood, available ingredients, or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular bread crumbs for gluten-free ones without sacrificing the crunch.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara for those who love a kick.
- Low-Carb: Substitute flour with almond flour and skip the breadcrumbs entirely.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken breasts between two sheets of saran wrap or parchment paper. Use a rolling pin or flat kitchen mallet to gently flatten them to about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking and tender juicy bites, seasoning every piece with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Utilize three separate dishes; one for flour, one for lightly beaten eggs, and another for the Italian breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in eggs, then press into the bread crumb mix, ensuring an even coat for that classic crispy crust.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Cook each breaded chicken breast for about 3–4 minutes per side until they’re golden brown. This initial fry creates a savory crust that locks in the flavors.
Step 4: Bake with Sauce and Cheese
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. In a 9×13 baking dish, spread some marinara, place the chicken on top, and add a bit more marinara sauce over the chicken. Top each piece with a mozzarella slice, then bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches 160 degrees internally and the cheese is beautifully melted.
Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Golden Crust Insiders: Combine equal parts olive oil and butter in the skillet for a tastier, golden crust that doesn’t burn too quickly.
- Sauce Savvy: Choose a high-quality marinara; its rich flavors are central to this dish’s success.
- Cheese Choice: Opt for fresh mozzarella for a more authentic Italian feel.
- Even Cooking: Evenly flatten chicken to ensure all parts cook uniformly, keeping it juicy and tender.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan
Garnishes
Finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped basil or parsley. This adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that elevates the entire plate.
Side Dishes
Pair your Baked Chicken Parmesan with a side of angel hair pasta, lightly tossed in olive oil, or a simple garden salad with a balsamic vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by plating each chicken breast atop a bed of pasta on individual plates for an elegant presentation. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a gourmet finish, impressing your guests before they even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the chicken and pasta separate to maintain the best texture when reheating.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cooked chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to two months, perfect for a quick meal later.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Baked Chicken Parmesan in the oven at 350°F until heated through, which takes about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, chicken thighs can be a great substitute for breasts in this recipe. They offer a richer flavor and stay moist due to their higher fat content.
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What type of marinara sauce is best?
A high-quality, store-bought marinara with minimal added sugars is recommended. Alternatively, homemade marinara can make this dish even more special.
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How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Make sure to dry the chicken completely before breading and gently press the crumbs into the meat. Allowing the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying helps the coating set properly.
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Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare and bread the chicken ahead, storing them in the fridge. When ready to cook, just fry and bake to enjoy this dish with minimal effort.
Final Thoughts
Dive into the fabulous world of Baked Chicken Parmesan with this simple guide. It’s a dish that lovingly combines crispy textures and hearty sauces in a way that few others can match. I’m thrilled for you to try it and hope it brings a taste of Italian warmth into your kitchen!
Print
Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, then baked to perfection. This recipe offers a flavorful, crispy exterior with juicy interior, served over pasta for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Breading and Cheese
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 23 oz jar marinara sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare chicken. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and flatten to 1/2 inch thickness using a rolling pin or mallet. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Set up breading stations. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of Italian bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge chicken. Coat each chicken breast first in flour, then dip into the egg, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
- Cook chicken. Heat olive oil and butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Assemble and bake. Spread marinara sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the browned chicken breasts on top, spoon additional marinara over each, and top with mozzarella slices. Bake for 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Serve. Serve the chicken with sauce over angel hair pasta, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts for juicier meat.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier melt or pre-shredded for convenience.
- For a crispier crust, bake the chicken on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.
- Ensure chicken reaches 160°F for safety and proper doneness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with pasta
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
