Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Preparation & Cooking Details

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Cooking time: 30–35 minutes

• Total time: 55 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Difficulty: Easy

• Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Coating

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon water or milk (to thin if needed)

For the Topping

• 2 cups marinara or traditional pasta sauce

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

3. Clean and pat the chicken breasts dry.

4. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally or gently pound them to an even thickness.

5. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

1. Add Italian breadcrumbs to a shallow bowl.

2. Add grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Mix in garlic powder, oregano, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

4. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Mayonnaise Coating

1. Place mayonnaise in a separate bowl.

2. Add a tablespoon of water or milk if needed.

3. Whisk until smooth and easy to spread.

4. Coat each chicken breast thoroughly with the mayonnaise mixture.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Place one mayonnaise-coated chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture.

2. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto both sides.

3. Make sure the chicken is completely covered.

4. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

5. Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.

3. The coating should become lightly golden.

4. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Add Marinara Sauce

1. Remove the chicken from the oven.

2. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast.

3. Spread the sauce evenly across the surface.

4. Avoid completely drowning the crispy breadcrumb coating.

Step 7: Add Cheese

1. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each chicken breast.

2. Add grated Parmesan cheese.

3. Return the baking dish to the oven.

4. Bake for another 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.

5. For a golden cheese topping, broil for 1–2 minutes while watching carefully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven.

2. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes.

3. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top.

4. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

This recipe contains no intentionally added tree nuts or peanuts.

Allergen information:

• Contains dairy (mozzarella and Parmesan).

• Contains eggs if the mayonnaise is egg-based.

• Contains wheat/gluten in regular Italian breadcrumbs.

• Check packaged breadcrumbs, sauces, and mayonnaise for possible nut cross-contamination.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan

1. Pound chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.

2. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.

3. Press breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken.

4. Use thick marinara sauce to prevent soggy chicken.

5. Don’t add cheese too early, as it may overbrown.

6. Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Let the chicken rest before serving to retain its juices.

What to Serve With Chicken Parmesan

• Spaghetti with marinara sauce

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Garlic butter pasta

• Caesar salad

• Roasted broccoli

• Garlic bread

• Steamed green beans

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2–3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Tip: An oven or air fryer helps restore the crispy breadcrumb coating.

Final Result

Tender, juicy chicken breasts with a golden Italian breadcrumb crust, rich marinara sauce, and a delicious layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

A perfect homemade Chicken Parmesan dinner that tastes just like your favorite Italian restaurant!