Baked Chicken Parmesan For Dinner: Easy & Delicious

Baked Chicken Parmesan For Dinner has become my go-to weeknight hero for so many reasons. I remember the first time I tried making chicken parmesan baked not fried, and honestly, I was a little skeptical. Could it really capture that comforting, cheesy goodness without all the oil? The aroma that filled my kitchen as it baked was incredible – that savory blend of Italian herbs and bubbling mozzarella. This Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan is perfect for those busy nights when you still want something impressive, and it’s even great for baked chicken parmesan for beginners. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Parmesan

I know you’ll adore this dish for so many reasons. It’s a winner for everyone!

• The taste is absolutely incredible, with that perfect crispy coating and gooey cheese.
• It’s a Healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan option, ditching the frying for a lighter meal.
• Prep time is super quick, making it a fantastic weeknight meal.
• It’s surprisingly budget-friendly, using common ingredients.
• This is a truly Healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• It’s incredibly family-friendly; even picky eaters rave about it.
• The ease of this recipe makes it perfect for beginners.
• It’s pure comfort food without the guilt!

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan

Getting this delicious dish on the table is a breeze with these simple ingredients. You’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each) – I like to use chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs – These give our chicken that signature crispy coating.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – This is key for that amazing Parmesan crusted baked chicken flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs – Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the mixture.
• 1/4 cup milk – This helps create a smooth coating for the chicken.
• 1 cup marinara sauce – Use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce!
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that irresistible cheesy topping.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.

How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan

Making this classic comfort food at home is surprisingly simple, and I find the aroma of this oven baked chicken parmesan filling my kitchen incredibly satisfying. Follow these steps for a perfect dish every time:

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or an oven-safe skillet. This prevents sticking and ensures a beautiful finish for your baked chicken parmesan.
2. Step 2: Prepare your dredging stations. In one shallow dish, combine the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates that wonderfully crispy, flavorful coating for your oven baked chicken parmesan.
3. Step 3: In a second shallow dish, whisk together the 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup milk until well combined. This creates the binder that helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere beautifully to the chicken.
4. Step 4: Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick coating. This is crucial for that perfect breaded baked chicken parmesan texture.
5. Step 5: Heat the 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for 1-2 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This searing step adds an amazing depth of flavor and texture to your baked chicken parmesan.
6. Step 6: Once seared, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon a generous amount of your favorite marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Top each with about 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Step 7: Transfer the skillet (or carefully place the chicken onto the prepared baking sheet if you didn’t use an oven-safe skillet) into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. You’ll smell the deliciousness as this oven baked chicken parmesan cooks!
8. Step 8: Once out of the oven, let your masterpiece rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your baked chicken parmesan even more tender and flavorful.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan

I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish. Follow these and you’ll be making the best baked chicken parmesan ever!

• For an extra crispy coating on your baked chicken parmesan, lightly toast the breadcrumbs in a dry skillet before you start dredging. This helps them get super crunchy in the oven.
• Don’t be afraid to season generously! Adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried oregano to the breadcrumb mixture can really boost the flavor of your oven baked chicken parmesan.
• Ensure your chicken breasts are an even thickness. You can pound them slightly with a meat mallet if needed. This guarantees even cooking, so you don’t have dry spots.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This is a simple step, but it makes a huge difference in keeping your baked chicken parmesan juicy.

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan?

The real secret to a perfect breaded baked chicken parmesan is a two-stage process: a quick sear in the skillet before baking. This gives it that golden, slightly crispy exterior that baking alone sometimes misses. For more tips on achieving perfect results, you can check out my cooking philosophy.

Can I make Baked Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the chicken by coating it and even searing it a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and then add the sauce and cheese just before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Chicken Parmesan?

A common pitfall is soggy breading. Make sure your chicken is fully coated and press the breadcrumbs on firmly. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet when searing, as this steams the chicken instead of browning it. Learning proper cooking techniques can make all the difference, and you can find more guidance from expert chefs.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan

This amazing baked chicken parmesan dish is so versatile! It’s the ultimate comfort food baked chicken, perfect for any night of the week. I love serving it alongside a pile of spaghetti tossed with garlic and olive oil, letting that extra marinara sauce from the chicken mingle with the pasta. Another favorite is pairing it with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette – the freshness cuts through the richness beautifully. For a truly satisfying meal, try it with some garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You can find great recipes for garlic bread to complement this dish.

Nutrition Facts for Baked Chicken Parmesan

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious baked chicken parmesan.

• Calories: 550
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your oven baked chicken parmesan. For more detailed nutritional information, consult with a registered dietitian.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Parmesan

This simple baked chicken parmesan is fantastic for leftovers! Once your delicious dish has cooled completely, it’s time to store it properly. I like to portion the chicken into airtight containers, making sure not to stack them too high if they’re still warm, as this can create condensation and make the breading soggy. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your oven baked chicken parmesan again, the best way to reheat it is in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You *can* use the microwave, but it often makes the coating a bit less crisp. If you need to check on storage guidelines, you can refer to our policies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Parmesan

What is baked chicken parmesan?

Baked chicken parmesan is a delicious and often healthier take on the classic Italian dish. Instead of frying, the chicken is breaded and then baked in the oven, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easier to make at home than you might think!

Can I use different types of cheese on my baked chicken parmesan?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for its meltiness, I love adding a sprinkle of provolone or even a touch of Parmesan on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor. Some people even mix a little into the breadcrumb coating for a more intense cheesy taste in their oven baked chicken parmesan.

What’s the best way to get crispy breading on baked chicken parmesan?

The key to a great crispy coating on your breaded baked chicken parmesan is to ensure the chicken is well-coated with the egg wash and then thoroughly pressed into the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra boost, you can lightly toast the breadcrumbs before coating, or add a tablespoon of olive oil to the breadcrumbs. Searing the chicken briefly before baking also helps set the crust. For more detailed advice, you can always reach out.

How do I make baked chicken parmesan for beginners?

For beginners, the most important thing is to follow the steps carefully. Ensure your oven is preheated correctly, don’t skip the searing step if the recipe includes it, and press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken. Using good quality marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella will also make a big difference in the final taste of your simple baked chicken parmesan. Remember, practice makes perfect, and you can always refer to our disclaimer for cooking advice.

Variations of Baked Chicken Parmesan You Can Try

While this classic baked chicken parmesan recipe is fantastic on its own, I love experimenting! Here are a few ways you can switch things up to create a whole new experience:

• Low Calorie Baked Chicken Parmesan: To make a low calorie baked chicken parmesan, try using panko breadcrumbs mixed with finely grated zucchini or cauliflower instead of just breadcrumbs. This adds volume and nutrients while cutting down on calories. You could also use a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara for a little heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative or crushed gluten-free cornflakes. The rest of the oven baked chicken parmesan process stays the same!
• Herbed Chicken Parmesan: Mix fresh chopped basil, oregano, or parsley directly into the breadcrumb coating for an extra burst of fresh flavor.

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