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Perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe with Crispy Golden Crust

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This baked chicken parmesan features a crispy golden crust, melty mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce. It’s a healthier, easy-to-make alternative to the traditional fried version, perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 ounces each)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 grams)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (about 150 grams), preferably Japanese-style
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Olive oil spray or light drizzle
  • 1.5 cups marinara sauce (360 ml), homemade or store-bought
  • 1 to 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (100–150 grams)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pound the chicken breasts to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up your breading station: place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second bowl, and combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a third bowl.
  4. Coat each chicken breast by dredging in flour, shaking off excess, dipping into beaten eggs, then pressing into the breadcrumb mixture to cover completely. Pat the crumbs firmly onto the chicken.
  5. Place the breaded chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over each piece.
  6. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and chicken is cooked through.
  7. Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Press breadcrumbs firmly to prevent them from falling off. Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before breading. Use a wire rack for crispier crust. Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. For dairy-free, use vegan mozzarella or omit cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken parmesan, crispy chicken parmesan, easy chicken parmesan, healthy chicken parmesan, Italian-American recipe, panko chicken parmesan

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/perfect-baked-chicken-parmesan-recipe-with-crispy-golden-crust-easy-step-by-step-guide/