Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Ingredients

Before we start, let’s make sure your kitchen is stocked with the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken:

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, about 4 medium-sized.
Breadcrumbs: Panko for extra crunch or regular if you prefer a classic texture.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for maximum flavor.
Flour: For a light coating that helps the egg stick.
Eggs: Beaten, to create a sticky base for the breadcrumbs.

For the Sauce and Toppings:

Marinara sauce: Store-bought or homemade, your choice.
Mozzarella cheese: Fresh or shredded, depending on availability.
Fresh basil: Optional but adds a lovely pop of flavor and color.
Olive oil: A drizzle to enhance crispiness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan

Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything. Trust me, having everything in place before you begin will make the process smoother.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil.
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender meat.
Set up a dredging station with three bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan in the third.

Coat the Chicken

Here’s the fun part:

Dip each chicken breast into the flour, coating lightly.
Next, submerge it in the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
Finally, press it into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating.

Place the coated chicken on your prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Chicken

Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the chicken to encourage crisping. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Add the Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is baked, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then top with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.