20-Minute Baked Chicken Parmesan

Baked Chicken Parmesan is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy breaded chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a meal you’ll want to make again and again. This easy, low-calorie version is ready in just 40 minutes and delivers all the flavor without the frying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting.

• Healthy and Flavorful: Baked instead of fried, this version is lower in calories but still packed with delicious flavors.

• Family Favorite: Crispy, cheesy, and satisfying, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

• Minimal Cleanup: This one-pan wonder makes cleanup easy and convenient!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating:

In a shallow dish, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

3. Coat the Chicken:

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

4. Brown the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook for 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

5. Bake the Chicken:

Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake and Serve:

Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Rest and Garnish:

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with fresh basil for added flavor and a beautiful finish.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 2 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for eggplant slices for a delicious vegetarian version of this classic dish.

• Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth of flavor.

• Sauce Swap: Try using a pesto or a white sauce instead of marinara for a fun twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but the cooking time may be slightly longer. Just ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature (165°F or 74°C).

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought marinara sauce works perfectly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

This Baked Chicken Parmesan is an easy, healthier take on a classic comfort food favorite. With crispy, golden chicken, melted mozzarella, and marinara sauce, it’s the perfect meal for any night of the week. The best part? It’s ready in just 40 minutes, making it a go-to for busy nights when you want something satisfying yet light!