Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes evoke as much warmth and comfort as Chicken Parmesan. This beloved classic, known for its succulent chicken, rich marinara, and sumptuous cheese, has won the hearts of food lovers around the world. What makes this dish even more appealing is the baked version, which allows for a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor. The baked Chicken Parmesan is not only easier to prepare than its fried counterpart, but it also delivers a delightful crunch, making it a perfect option for family dinners and gatherings.

Discover the warmth of Italian cuisine with this Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe! Combining succulent chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, you'll enjoy a healthier twist on a classic comfort dish. This baked version provides a delightful crunch, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and a straightforward preparation process, you can create a cheesy delight that everyone will love. Impress your guests and enjoy the comforting flavors of this beloved dish!

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil spray (or drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough for crispy chicken.

Prepare the Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Set Up the Battering Station: Arrange three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl, the beaten eggs in the second bowl, and mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese in the third bowl.

Coat the Chicken: Take each seasoned chicken breast and dip it into the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat each piece thoroughly in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.

Arrange for Baking: Lay the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. If desired, lightly spray the tops with olive oil or drizzle with olive oil to encourage a golden, crispy finish.

Bake: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden and crispy.

Add Marinara and Cheese: Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven. Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the chopped fresh basil.

Broil for Finishing Touch: Return the chicken to the oven, switching to the broil setting for an additional 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the cheese melts and bubbles, becoming lightly golden.

Serve: After broiling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired and pair with a side of pasta or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings