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Crispy Ultimate Baked Chicken Parmesan

crispy baked chicken parmesan - featured image

A fuss-free, crispy baked chicken Parmesan recipe featuring a crunchy panko crust, melty mozzarella, and bright marinara sauce, perfect for cozy dinners and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 68 oz each), pounded to even thickness
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (room temperature)
  • ยฝ cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free option)
  • Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil
  • 1 ยฝ cups marinara sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (for garnish)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for color)

Instructions

  1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ยฝ inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a breadcrumb mixture (panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
  3. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the eggs, letting extra drip off.
  4. Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring full coverage.
  5. Preheat oven to 425ยฐF (220ยฐC). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and lightly spray or brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the wire rack or baking sheet. Lightly spray tops with cooking spray or drizzle olive oil.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes until the crust is golden and chicken is nearly cooked through.
  8. Remove from oven and spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce on each chicken breast.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
  10. Return to oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  11. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use a wire rack for crispier chicken. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto chicken for better crust adhesion. Lightly spray olive oil on top before baking to achieve golden crispiness without frying. If sauce is watery, simmer longer before use. Reheat leftovers in oven at 375ยฐF for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken, crispy chicken, panko crust, easy dinner, comfort food, Italian recipe