Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the beloved Italian-American classic, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without the extra calories from frying. This dish features juicy, breaded chicken breasts baked to golden perfection, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Plus, by baking instead of frying, you get all the crispy goodness with none of the guilt. Get ready to savor this lightened-up version of Chicken Parmesan that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
You’ll love this Baked Chicken Parmesan because it combines convenience, flavor, and health in one perfect dish. It skips the mess of deep frying, yet still delivers a crisp crust thanks to the oven-baked breading. The melted cheese and savory marinara sauce create that classic Chicken Parm flavor you know and love, while the use of part-skim mozzarella and minimal oil keeps things lighter. It’s also a great make-ahead option, perfect for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd. This recipe proves you don’t need a frying pan to make a fantastic Chicken Parmesan.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 cutlets)
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (gluten-free optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- 3/4 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce or Filetto di Pomodoro
- Cooking spray
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and lightly coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In another bowl, melt the butter or measure out the olive oil.
- Gently brush each chicken piece with the butter or oil, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing slightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Place the breaded chicken cutlets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray for added crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on top of each cutlet.
- Sprinkle each with 1 1/2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese.
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and fully melted.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- For extra crispiness, place the baking sheet on the top oven rack during the final few minutes.
- Dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels before coating to help the breading stick better.
- Line your baking tray with parchment paper for an easier cleanup process.
Substitutions And Variations
- Substitute the chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re avoiding gluten.
- Use arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara for a fiery, spicier kick.
- Add a nutritious boost by layering sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables under the cheese.
- Make it cheesy by using a blend of mozzarella and provolone or fontina.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispiness of the breading. This dish also freezes well: wrap individual portions tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 248 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 9.5g
- Protein: 31g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 98.5mg
- Sodium: 447mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Baked Chicken Parmesan over whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette makes a delicious side. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a creamy risotto.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Parmesan
Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it a few hours in advance. When ready, just bake as directed.
How do I keep the chicken crispy? Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet and use cooking spray to help crisp the top. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce? Absolutely. Choose a high-quality brand with low added sugar for the best flavor.
Is this dish freezer-friendly? Yes, wrap portions tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for best results.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese? You can substitute with Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for stopping by and exploring this healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe. I absolutely love how easy and delicious this dish is, and I hope it brings comfort and joy to your dinner table too. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a meal you’ll find yourself making again and again. Whether you’re feeding your family or prepping meals ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of our food-loving community!
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Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on a classic favorite. This easy oven-baked recipe is crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor without the need for frying. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Try it tonight and enjoy a lighter take on comfort food!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 cutlets)
3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan or Romano cheese
2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
3/4 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
Cooking spray
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F and lightly coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- In another bowl, melt the butter or measure out the olive oil.
- Gently brush each chicken piece with the butter or oil, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing slightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Place the breaded chicken cutlets on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray for added crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on top of each cutlet.
- Sprinkle each with 1 1/2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese.
- Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and fully melted.
Notes
Dry the chicken before breading to help the coating stick.
For extra crispiness, use the top oven rack during baking.
You can substitute chicken thighs or use arrabbiata sauce for a spicier version.
Leftovers reheat well in the oven or freeze for later meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: ITALIAN