Oven baked chicken parmesan is a classic dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese for a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers impressive flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. With its golden, crispy topping and warm, melty cheese, this dish makes an excellent choice for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. As you indulge in this delightful meal, you’ll appreciate the combination of textures—from the crunchy breadcrumb coating to the tender chicken beneath. Plus, since it’s baked rather than fried, you can enjoy all the flavors without the extra grease! Whether served over pasta or on its own with a side salad, oven baked chicken parmesan never disappoints.
This dish offers a wonderful balance of protein and carbohydrates while keeping cooking time manageable. In just about 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a mouth-watering meal ready to serve. Follow along as we explore why you’ll love this recipe as well as how to create your very own oven baked chicken parmesan masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide an extra crispy coating; feel free to use regular breadcrumbs if preferred
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances flavor more than pre-grated varieties
- Mozzarella Cheese: Use shredded mozzarella for a gooey texture that melts beautifully
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; either works well—just ensure it’s flavorful
End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”
How to Make OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, prepare your baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season each boneless, skinless chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides. This step enhances the flavor of your dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating
In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, beat an egg thoroughly. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture first and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they are cooked through and golden brown.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Remove the baking dish from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken generously. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese before returning the dish to the oven.
Step 6: Final Baking
Bake again for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, broil on high for one minute at the end of baking—watch carefully!
How to Serve OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN
This OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken by breading it in advance. Simply coat the chicken breasts with breadcrumbs and cheese, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Storing: Store any leftover OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze it; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, which allows for up to three months of storage.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out, making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
FAQs for OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN :
What is OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN?
OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN is a delicious Italian-American dish that features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to the classic fried version, as it uses the oven to achieve a crispy texture without excessive oil. The combination of savory flavors from the tomato sauce, rich Parmesan cheese, and tender chicken makes it a family favorite. Whether served with pasta or a side salad, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
How do you make OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN?
To make OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Next, create a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Once cooked, top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese before returning to the oven until the cheese melts.
Can I prepare OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN in advance?
Yes, you can prepare OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN in advance! To do this, follow the recipe up to the point of baking. Once you have coated the chicken breasts in breadcrumbs, you can place them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it easy to have dinner ready quickly on busy nights. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN?
OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN pairs excellently with various sides. Traditional options include spaghetti or fettuccine tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal. For a lighter option, consider serving it with steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette. Garlic bread also makes an excellent accompaniment, adding an extra layer of flavor. Feel free to get creative and mix different sides based on your preferences; this dish is versatile!
Is OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN healthy?
OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN can be considered healthier than its fried counterpart due to its lower fat content. Baking instead of frying reduces calories while still delivering a satisfying crunch thanks to the breadcrumb coating. You can further enhance its health benefits by using whole wheat breadcrumbs and low-fat cheese options. Additionally, serving it alongside vegetables increases nutrient intake while keeping meals balanced.
How do I store leftovers of OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN?
To store leftovers of OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN properly, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage—up to three months works well! If freezing, ensure each piece is separated by parchment paper before placing them in the container so they don’t stick together when thawing. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven for best results; this helps retain crispiness compared to microwave heating.
Conclusion :
In conclusion, OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN is not only simple and quick to prepare but also delivers mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love. By following the steps outlined above—coating your chicken properly and using quality ingredients—you can achieve that perfect balance of crispy texture and cheesy goodness right at home. This dish serves as an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Enjoy experimenting with different sides and variations to make this recipe uniquely yours!
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** Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish that marries juicy chicken with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, providing a comforting meal without the hassle of frying. With a crispy breadcrumb topping and savory flavors, each bite ensures satisfaction. Whether served over pasta or with a fresh salad, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
– 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Fresh garlic cloves
– Panko breadcrumbs
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
– Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. In one bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese; in another bowl, beat an egg. Dip chicken in the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated chicken in the baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven, top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then bake again for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted.
Notes
– For extra crispiness, broil for one minute at the end of baking.
– Feel free to customize by adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 35g