This Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken breasts are covered in a crunchy coating with a cheesy topping, baked to golden perfection.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make! I love serving this with some spaghetti. It’s like a warm hug on your plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are essential for this dish as they cook evenly. You can use thighs if you prefer darker meat—they’re juicy and full of flavor!
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs are packed with flavor. If you can’t find them, you can use plain breadcrumbs and mix in your favorite herbs and spices.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. Pecorino Romano cheese is a great substitute if you’re looking for something a bit sharper!
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara for convenience, but homemade is always better. Just simmer some canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs for a quick version!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch on Chicken?
The crunchiness of the breading is key for this recipe. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Make sure to dry the chicken well before breading; moisture can make the coating soggy.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This helps it crisp up nicely in the oven.
- Bake on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet if you have one. This allows air to circulate and prevents the bottom from getting soggy.
By following these tips, you’ll be guaranteed to have a crispy, delicious chicken every time! Enjoy!
Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 1/2 cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked spaghetti or your choice of pasta, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crispy baked chicken Parmesan takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. So, in just about 45 minutes, you can have a delicious, homemade meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating, prepare your baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Grab those chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This step will help the seasonings stick better. Season both sides with salt and pepper—don’t be shy!
3. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Now, let’s get ready to bread the chicken! You’ll set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, put the flour. In the second, whisk together the eggs and water until combined. In the third, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Easy peasy!
4. Bread the Chicken:
Take a chicken breast and first dredge it in the flour, making sure to shake off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, letting the extra drip off. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help those crumbs stick. Repeat this for all the chicken breasts.
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken breasts on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter to give that crispy golden finish. Now, pop them in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is looking golden and delicious.
6. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Once your chicken is ready, take the baking sheet out of the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast like a cozy blanket, then sprinkle on the mozzarella cheese. Yum!
7. Final Bake:
Put the baking sheet back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes. We want that cheese to melt, bubble, and turn a slightly golden brown. It’s almost time to eat!
8. Serve:
When everything looks scrumptious, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Serve hot over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta, and enjoy your mouth-watering crispy baked chicken Parmesan!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
FAQ about Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternate choice. They’re juicier and have a bit more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through thoroughly.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can use plain breadcrumbs and mix in Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme to achieve similar flavor. You can also use panko for an even crunchier texture!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and bread it a few hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. You can also bake it ahead of time, then reheat in the oven briefly before serving to get the coating crispy again!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through for the best texture. Enjoy it in a sandwich or on top of a salad for a delicious twist!
