Looking for an easy meal for newlyweds? This Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is just the ticket! I remember when my brother Jake and his wife Sarah first moved in together. They were always on the hunt for quick and delicious dinners, and this recipe quickly became a staple in their kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a breeze to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free.
- The crispy coating and cheesy topping are a hit with both kids and adults.
- You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and spices.
Pure Comfort
There’s something about the combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.
What You Need
- 1 lb 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Pounded to an even thickness for even cooking.
- 120 g 1 cup all-purpose flour – For dredging the chicken; can substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- 2 2 large eggs – Beaten; helps the breadcrumbs stick.
- 100 g 1 cup breadcrumbs – Use Italian-style for extra flavor; panko works great too.
- 1 tsp 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds flavor to the breadcrumbs.
- 1 tsp 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For a classic Italian taste.
- 24 oz 1 jar marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade works; choose your favorite.
- 4 oz 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For topping; can substitute with provolone.
- 1 oz 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For an extra cheesy finish.
- to taste Salt and pepper – For seasoning the chicken.
Time to Cook
Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 25 minutes | Total: 40 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prep the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will help the chicken crisp up nicely as it bakes.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. You’ll want them to be tender and flavorful.
- Season the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the excess. This step is key for a crispy crust.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, coating it well. The egg helps the breadcrumbs stick, giving you that delicious crunch.
- In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated. You want that golden-brown color to shine through.
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should be golden and crispy.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making it even more delicious. Serve it up with a side salad or pasta for a complete meal.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for a couple of hours before breading.
- If you want to save time, use pre-breaded chicken cutlets from the store.
- Make sure to let the chicken rest after baking; this keeps it juicy.
Mix It Up
- Try adding fresh basil or spinach on top of the chicken before adding the cheese for a fresh twist.
- Swap the marinara for pesto for a different flavor profile.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a side of spaghetti for a classic pairing.
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
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FAQs
Can I make this chicken Parmesan ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze the baked chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
You can use crushed cornflakes or oats for a gluten-free option.
What should I serve with chicken Parmesan?
A side of pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad works wonderfully!
Conclusion
This Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is truly the best ever chicken Parmesan for easy weeknight dinners. It's quick, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a meal that brings everyone together!
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness about 1/2 inch.
- Season the flour with salt and pepper and dredge each chicken breast in it, shaking off excess.
- Dip floured chicken into beaten eggs, coating well.
- Mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a shallow dish and coat chicken breasts fully.
- Place breaded chicken on baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden.
- Remove chicken, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then bake 5 more minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Let chicken rest a few minutes before serving.