Baked Chicken Parmesan

🔥 Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Classic 🍗🧀✨

1. Introduction

Are you craving a dish that combines crispy textures with cheesy goodness? Look no further than this chicken parmesan recipe! This baked chicken dish offers the perfect balance of crunchy coating, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, all made healthier by baking instead of frying. With its irresistible flavor and ease of preparation, this cheesy chicken classic is sure to become a family favorite.

2. Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

3. How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the beaten eggs in a shallow bowl, and in another bowl, combine the bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.

Breading the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are well coated. Then, dredge them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating evenly. For extra crunch, you can double dip the chicken in eggs and bread crumbs.

Baking the Chicken

Arrange the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack. Drizzle with olive oil to promote crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown.

Adding Cheese and Sauce

Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to preserve the crispy coating.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Chicken Masterpiece

• Serve over a bed of cooked spaghetti or other pasta for a classic pairing.
• Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.
• Top with additional fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

For a complete meal, try pairing this dish with our creamy baked chicken stroganoff or the hearty crockpot lasagna soup.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully and tend to be juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly for thicker thighs.

What substitutions can I make for the marinara sauce?

You can use any tomato-based sauce you prefer, such as arrabbiata or a homemade marinara. For a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free bread crumbs.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup for your baking needs.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — An alternative to baking that offers crispy results with less oil.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Keep your drinks chilled for the perfect pasta pairing or to enjoy with leftovers.
• KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer — Great for preparing homemade sauces or even mixing bread crumbs for the coating.

8. Related Recipes to Explore

• Creamy Tuscan Chicken and Orzo Casserole
• Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
• Spicy Southern Chicken Spaghetti

9. Conclusion

This crispy baked chicken parmesan recipe combines the best of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful elements in a healthier, oven-baked version of the beloved classic. Easy to prepare and infinitely customizable, it’s perfect for entertaining or a cozy family dinner. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting taste of cheesy chicken with every bite!

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