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A close-up shows a delicious serving of golden-brown Baked Chicken Parmesan, topped with melted cheese and marinara sauce.

Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

This recipe delivers perfectly baked chicken parmesan with a crispy, golden-brown crust, tender, juicy chicken, and bubbly, melty cheese. The key is to dry the chicken thoroughly, pre-sear it in a skillet, and use a thin layer of marinara sauce to prevent sogginess.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup olive oil, divided
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish optional

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large oven-safe skillet
  • Three shallow dishes
  • paper towels
  • tongs
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then, coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add two chicken breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside. Repeat with remaining olive oil and chicken breasts.
  5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of the skillet. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
  6. Top each chicken breast with more marinara sauce and slices of mozzarella cheese.
  7. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately with pasta or a side salad.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry is crucial for crispy breading. Pre-searing the chicken helps lock in moisture and prevents the cheese from burning. Use a thin layer of sauce to avoid soggy breading. Monitor the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal juiciness.