Name: Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (Cut into 6-8 thin pieces (about 1/2 inch thick)); 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (For coating); 2 eggs (beaten); 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs (For a crispy texture); 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (Adds rich flavor); 1 tsp garlic powder (For a garlicky taste); 1 tsp Italian seasoning (Herbs that complement marinara); 1 cup marinara sauce (Base flavor); 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (Thinly sliced)

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If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious, and straightforward meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, this dish will become a staple in your home. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again:

Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can have a flavorful dish on the table in no time.
Family-Friendly: The combination of chicken, cheese, and marinara is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying means less oil and fewer calories, making it a healthier choice.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, salad, or even on a sub for a delicious sandwich.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for making ahead and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.

The Essentials

To create this Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 6-8 thin pieces (about 1/2 inch thick) for even cooking.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: This helps to create a nice coating on the chicken.
2 eggs, beaten: Used for the breadcrumb mixture to stick.
3/4 cup dry bread crumbs: For a crispy texture.
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich flavor and enhances the dish.
1 tsp garlic powder: For a subtle garlicky taste.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the marinara.
1 cup marinara sauce: The base flavor that ties everything together.
4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese: Thinly sliced for that melty goodness on top.

Setup & Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Baking sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Three shallow bowls: For the flour, eggs, and breadcrumb mixtures.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the chicken to an even thickness.
Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for optimal baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Prepare Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Follow these simple steps to create your Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken will bake evenly and achieve a perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and cut them into 6-8 thin pieces. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps them cook thoroughly and evenly.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.

Step 6: Add the Marinara and Mozzarella

Once the chicken is baked, remove it from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Final Bake

Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan with your favorite sides, such as pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan with these substitutions:

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.
Cheese Alternatives: Try using provolone or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with eggplant slices for a tasty vegetarian version.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

This dish is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken, bread it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
If you have leftover chicken, it can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated easily for a quick lunch or dinner.
Enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach on top of the marinara sauce before adding the mozzarella.
If you want a crispier topping, you can broil the chicken for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To store your Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan, follow these tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.

Your Top Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.

What can I serve with Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan?

This dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti, a side salad, or garlic bread. You can also serve it over a bed of sautéed vegetables for a lighter option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and bread it a day in advance. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve for a fresh, hot meal.

Is there a way to make this dish spicier?

Definitely! You can add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or use a spicier marinara sauce to give it that extra kick.

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Save & Share

If you enjoyed this Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Whether they’re seasoned cooks or just beginning their culinary adventures, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, everyone will feel like a chef in their own kitchen. Happy cooking!