Parmesan Chicken: Crispy, Cheesy, and Baked to Perfection 🧄🍅🧀
Looking for a dish that’s simple yet satisfies like comfort food should? Parmesan Chicken is a beloved favorite that brings together golden-breaded chicken, rich Parmesan, and gooey mozzarella. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in cheesy goodness — the kind of meal that makes you want seconds (and thirds!).
This version is oven-baked for a lighter twist but still delivers that irresistible crunch and flavor. Serve it over pasta, with garlic bread, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete dinner win.
🛒 Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup bread crumbs (Italian-seasoned recommended, or add Italian herbs yourself)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1–2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil or cooking spray, for baking
🔪 Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Pound the Chicken
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using a mallet or rolling pin (about ½ inch thick). This ensures even cooking and better texture.
Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations
Prepare three shallow bowls:
Bowl 1: Flour
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Mix breadcrumbs with ½ cup Parmesan cheese
Dredge each chicken breast in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then coat in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to adhere.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Place breaded chicken on prepared baking dish.
Lightly drizzle with olive oil or spray with cooking spray for a golden crust.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and the coating is crisp.
Step 4: Add Sauce & Cheese
Remove chicken from oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
Sprinkle with mozzarella and the remaining ½ cup Parmesan cheese.
Return to oven and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
(Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes to get that golden-brown cheese top!)
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Over pasta: Classic spaghetti or penne with extra marinara.
With salad: A Caesar or arugula salad cuts through the richness.
Sandwich style: Tuck into a hoagie roll for a killer chicken parm sub.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze before adding sauce/cheese for best texture; wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave with a damp paper towel over the top.
🧑🍳 Tips for the Best Parmesan Chicken
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Want extra crispy? Mix in crushed cornflakes or panko with the breadcrumbs.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning in the breadcrumb mix.