Description
This Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Italian dish by baking breaded chicken cutlets rather than frying them. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a flavorful mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then baked until crispy. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this meal is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 pieces)
Breading
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (such as 4C, or gluten-free crumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Romano cheese)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (or olive oil)
Toppings
- 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded, Polly-O preferred)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Other
- Cooking spray
- Basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Lightly spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Breading: In a bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, melt the butter or use olive oil.
- Coat the Chicken: Lightly brush each chicken piece with the melted butter. Then dip each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Place the coated chicken evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Initial Baking: Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken with a little cooking spray to help crisp the coating. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- This recipe skips the traditional frying step, making the dish healthier and easier to prepare.
- Using part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while maintaining great flavor and meltability.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs can be swapped with gluten-free options for dietary needs.
- Ensure chicken pieces are evenly sliced in half lengthwise for even cooking.
- Pair with pasta, a salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 248 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 447 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9.5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 98.5 mg
