If you’re craving a classic Chicken Parmesan but want to keep things simple and healthy, this Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan is the perfect recipe! It’s quick to prepare, baked instead of fried, and delivers that crispy, cheesy goodness you love, all while being much lighter than the traditional fried version. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- No Frying Needed: Skip the oil and mess of frying while still getting that crispy Parmesan crust.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Healthy: Baked instead of fried, with chicken breasts for lean protein and a lower calorie count than most restaurant versions.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
- 2 tbsp minced parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and brush it with olive oil.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, creating two thinner pieces. This helps them cook quickly and evenly. Place them in a gallon-sized zip-top bag, seal it, and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat pounder or rolling pin.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: In one shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, whisk the egg. Dip each chicken breast first into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven on the second rack from the top and bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Flip the chicken over, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven, turn on the broiler, and broil for 2-4 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve hot. Pair with a side of pasta, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Even Thickness: Make sure the chicken is of uniform thickness for even cooking. This also helps the breading crisp up nicely.
- Homemade Marinara: For the freshest flavor, use homemade marinara or your favorite jarred sauce.
- Grate Your Own Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan has a much better flavor than pre-grated options, making a big difference in this dish.
Nutritional Benefits: This baked version of Chicken Parmesan is healthier than the traditional fried variety, offering about 459 calories per serving with 42 grams of protein. Plus, it’s much lower in fat and calories compared to many restaurant versions!
Final Thoughts: Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier, quicker alternative to the classic recipe, without sacrificing the delicious flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food with a healthier twist. Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home in just 30 minutes!