Get ready to savor the irresistible taste of Baked Chicken Parmesan! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, crispy breading, and melted cheese, creating a comfort dish that everyone will crave again and again.

Crispy breaded chicken topped with melted cheese — Golden-brown Baked Chicken Parmesan fresh from the oven

A Family Favorite Story

My husband absolutely lights up whenever I announce that Baked Chicken Parmesan is on the menu. He adores the way the chicken stays juicy on the inside, all while sporting a crisp golden crust on the outside. Over the years, this simple yet impressive recipe has become a centerpiece for our cozy family dinners. One bite, and you’ll see why it’s so loved in our home.

Why This Crisp Chicken Parm

Oven-Baked Goodness: Healthier than fried, yet still perfectly crunchy and golden.
Mouthwatering Blend: Tender chicken, tangy marinara, and gooey mozzarella create an unforgettable trio.
Quick & Easy: Straightforward steps mean you can enjoy this crowd-pleaser even on busy weeknights.
Restaurant-Style at Home: Impress family and friends without leaving your kitchen.

What You Need To Make This Baked Chicken Parmesan

(Recipe adjusted to serve 4; measurements in grams and pounds)

Chicken Breasts (about 450g / 1 lb total)
- Lean, tender protein that bakes up beautifully.
Olive Oil (30 ml / ~0.06 lb)
- Adds flavor and helps achieve a crisp outer texture.
Egg (1 large)
- Essential binding agent to help breadcrumbs stick.
Panko Breadcrumbs (100g / ~0.22 lb)
- Light, airy breadcrumbs that create a crispy crust.
Parmesan Cheese (50g / ~0.11 lb, freshly grated)
- Sharp, salty kick that elevates the crust.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp)
- Infuses that signature Italian herb aroma.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp)
- Subtle garlic essence for a savory boost.
Kosher Salt (1 tsp)
- Brings out all the savory flavors.
Black Pepper (½ tsp)
- Adds just a hint of warmth.
Marinara Sauce (240 ml / ~0.53 lb)
- Tangy sauce that keeps the chicken moist.
Shredded Mozzarella (150g / ~0.33 lb)
- Melts into gooey perfection on top.
Fresh Parsley (optional, chopped)
- Bright garnish that adds color and freshness.

Preparing chicken in egg and breadcrumbs — Easy dredging process

How to Crisp Chicken Parm

Prep Your Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, then lightly brush or drizzle olive oil to prevent sticking.
Flatten the Chicken
Carefully slice each chicken breast in half if thick, then pound gently for even thickness. Pat dry, then season with salt and pepper.
Assemble Your Coatings
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine panko, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, garlic powder, half the salt, and half the pepper.
Dip & Dredge
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Chicken
Slide into the oven on a middle rack. Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Sauce & Cheese
Carefully flip each chicken piece, then top with a spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella on top.
Broil to Finish
Switch to the broiler (or keep the oven at a high temperature). Broil for 2–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and edges of the chicken are turning golden.
Garnish & Serve
Let it rest a minute, then plate with parsley sprinkled on top. Prepare to be wowed by the cheesy goodness!

Final dish plated with Baked Chicken Parmesan — Comforting Italian feast

Notes

For a full Italian feast, serve with spaghetti tossed in garlic and olive oil.
Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce for a personal touch.
Leftovers make a perfect sandwich filling when reheated the next day—extra Parmesan recommended!

Nothing says comfort quite like Baked Chicken Parmesan. It’s a dish that warms hearts, fills bellies, and transforms an ordinary evening into an unforgettable Italian-style dinner. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, cheesy masterpiece, and let the aromas and flavors create cherished memories around your table.

Slicing into cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan — Tender, juicy interior

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Thighs stay wonderfully juicy—just adjust cooking time to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) internally.

2. How can I add more flavor?

Sprinkle extra herbs like basil or rosemary into the breadcrumbs. A pinch of chili flakes also adds a pleasant kick.

3. Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes. Swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re all set.

4. Can I prepare the chicken ahead?

Yes, you can coat the chicken earlier. Store it covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.

5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps the breading from turning soggy.

Baked Chicken Parmesan

Get ready to savor the irresistible taste of Baked Chicken Parmesan! This Italian-inspired recipe combines tender chicken, crispy breading, and melted cheese, creating a comfort dish that everyone will crave again and again.

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Serving Size 4

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts about 450g / 1 lb total
Lean tender protein that bakes up beautifully.
Olive Oil 30 ml / ~0.06 lb
Adds flavor and helps achieve a crisp outer texture.
Egg 1 large
Essential binding agent to help breadcrumbs stick.
Panko Breadcrumbs 100g / ~0.22 lb
Light airy breadcrumbs that create a crispy crust.
Parmesan Cheese 50g / ~0.11 lb, freshly grated
Sharp salty kick that elevates the crust.
Dried Oregano 1 tsp
Infuses that signature Italian herb aroma.
Garlic Powder ½ tsp
Subtle garlic essence for a savory boost.
Kosher Salt 1 tsp
Brings out all the savory flavors.
Black Pepper ½ tsp
Adds just a hint of warmth.
Marinara Sauce 240 ml / ~0.53 lb
Tangy sauce that keeps the chicken moist.
Shredded Mozzarella 150g / ~0.33 lb
Melts into gooey perfection on top.
Fresh Parsley optional, chopped
Bright garnish that adds color and freshness.
Easy dredging process

Instructions

Prep Your Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, then lightly brush or drizzle olive oil to prevent sticking.
Flatten the Chicken
Carefully slice each chicken breast in half if thick, then pound gently for even thickness. Pat dry, then season with salt and pepper.
Assemble Your Coatings
In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
In another bowl, combine panko, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, garlic powder, half the salt, and half the pepper.
Dip & Dredge
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly. Arrange the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Chicken
Slide into the oven on a middle rack. Bake for about 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Sauce & Cheese
Carefully flip each chicken piece, then top with a spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle mozzarella on top.
Broil to Finish
Switch to the broiler (or keep the oven at a high temperature). Broil for 2–4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and edges of the chicken are turning golden.
Garnish & Serve
Let it rest a minute, then plate with parsley sprinkled on top. Prepare to be wowed by the cheesy goodness!
Comforting Italian feast

Notes

For a full Italian feast, serve with spaghetti tossed in garlic and olive oil.

Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce for a personal touch.

Leftovers make a perfect sandwich filling when reheated the next day—extra Parmesan recommended!

Nothing says comfort quite like Baked Chicken Parmesan. It’s a dish that warms hearts, fills bellies, and transforms an ordinary evening into an unforgettable Italian-style dinner. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy, cheesy masterpiece, and let the aromas and flavors create cherished memories around your table.