If you have a soft spot for classic Italian dishes but want a lighter, fuss-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Picture juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust, layered with melted mozzarella, and beautifully nestled under a vibrant spoonful of rich tomato sauce. This dish perfectly balances wholesome ingredients with comforting tastes and makes for an effortless weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress guests without the usual stress. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, approachable, and each plays a vital role in coaxing out the best texture and flavor in this Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe. From the crunchy breadcrumb crust to the gooey cheese topping, every component comes together to create a harmonious and satisfying dish.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that’s easy to flatten for even cooking.
- Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: Add robust flavor and a nice herb-flecked crispiness.
- Whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs: Light and airy crumbs deliver that perfect extra crunch.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a salty, nutty depth to the breadcrumb coating.
- Garlic powder: Adds a subtle pungent warmth without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Ground black pepper: Balances the savoriness with a gentle kick.
- Egg whites: Help the crumb mixture adhere to the chicken while keeping things light.
- Part-skim mozzarella: Melts beautifully for a stretchy, creamy topping that’s not too heavy.
- High-quality jarred tomato sauce: A saucy, tangy finish that pulls all the elements together.
- Fresh basil: Brightens every bite and provides a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting each chicken breast in half lengthwise to get four thinner pieces. Then, gently pound each piece to about half an inch thick to ensure even baking and a tender, juicy texture. Setting the stage with evenly sized pieces is the secret to perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep Your Workspace
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 400°F, and lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Organize your dipping station: a wide bowl for the Italian breadcrumbs, Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, and pepper mixture, another bowl for the whisked egg whites, and have your flattened chicken pieces close at hand. This setup keeps things flowing smoothly without any mid-process scrambling.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Working one piece at a time, dip the chicken into the egg whites, letting any excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure every side is generously covered. This dual-coating technique crowns the chicken with a golden crust that crisps up beautifully in the oven while sealing in moisture.
Step 4: Bake Until Crispy
Place the coated chicken pieces on your prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to encourage browning. Bake for about 15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and the crumbs turn golden brown. Keep in mind the temperature will continue rising slightly after it’s out of the oven, ensuring perfectly cooked but juicy chicken.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Remove the chicken from the oven and dollop about 2 tablespoons of your tomato sauce on each piece. Then, top each with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Slide the pan back into the oven for another 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, irresistible topping that makes this dish so iconic.
Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy
Once the cheese is melted, pull the chicken out and sprinkle fresh basil over the top for a pop of color and vibrant flavor. You’re now ready to savor your homemade Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe, whether plated neatly or piled high with your favorite sides.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a classic finishing touch that adds a fragrant herbal lift, but you can also sprinkle some extra freshly grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. A drizzle of extra olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness and complexity too.
Side Dishes
This baked chicken parmesan shines best alongside hearty whole wheat spaghetti or light zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Steamed or roasted veggies, like broccoli or green beans, bring color and crunch, balancing out the richness of the chicken and cheese for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lighter meal, serve the chicken atop a fresh bed of arugula or mixed greens to turn it into a satisfying salad. Alternatively, place the chicken on a toasted sandwich roll with extra sauce and cheese for a warm, gourmet chicken parmesan sandwich that’s sure to wow family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover baked chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce and chicken together helps the flavors meld, and the breading stays more tender after refrigeration.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Arrange cooled chicken pieces on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps re-crisp the crust and melt the cheese without drying out the chicken like a microwave would.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be juicier, though you may need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on thickness.
Is it necessary to pound the chicken thin?
Pounding ensures even cooking and helps the chicken bake quickly while staying tender. Thick pieces risk being undercooked or drying out, so it’s worth taking the time.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can swap mozzarella and Parmesan for dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just keep in mind the flavor and melt may differ slightly, but the dish will still taste delicious.
What can I substitute for egg whites?
You can use a whole egg or a plant-based egg replacer to bind the breadcrumbs, but egg whites keep the coating light and help crisp up the crust nicely.
How do I get the breadcrumb crust extra crispy?
Using a combination of regular Italian seasoned and whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs creates a great texture. Spraying the coated chicken with a bit of cooking spray before baking also helps achieve that golden crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe is the perfect blend of ease, flavor, and comfort that makes cooking at home feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re feeding the family or treating yourself, every bite offers that satisfying mix of crispy crust, tender chicken, melty cheese, and tangy sauce. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A healthier take on classic Chicken Parmesan, featuring baked chicken breasts coated in a crispy whole wheat breadcrumb and Parmesan crust, topped with savory tomato sauce and melted part-skim mozzarella. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying dinner with a light yet indulgent flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces each)
Breading
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Binding
- 2 large egg whites
Topping and Sauce
- 4 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup high-quality jarred tomato sauce (plus extra for serving as desired)
- Fresh basil (thinly sliced or chopped)
Optional Serving Suggestions
- Prepared whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles
Instructions
- Cut the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four pieces total. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each piece to an even 1/2-inch thickness; set aside.
- Prepare Breading Mixture and Egg Whites: In a broad shallow dish, combine Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until they become lightly foamy. Slice or grate the mozzarella into four equal portions for topping later.
- Dredge the Chicken: Set up a station with the pounded chicken, egg whites, breadcrumb mixture, and prepared baking sheet in that order. Dip each piece of chicken first into the egg whites, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even crust on all sides.
- Bake the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken pieces on the greased baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (carryover cooking will bring it to safe 165°F after removal).
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each piece. Top each piece with a slice or portion of mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted fully.
- Serve and Garnish: Sprinkle the baked chicken with fresh chopped basil. Serve immediately with extra tomato sauce and optional sides such as whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, pound chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness accurately.
- Whole wheat breadcrumbs add fiber and a nutty flavor compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Part-skim mozzarella keeps the dish lighter but still creamy and cheesy.
- Allow chicken to rest a few minutes after baking for juices to redistribute.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
