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Looking for an easy weeknight meal that’s both comforting and healthy? This Baked Chicken Parmesan is your answer! With a golden, crispy coating and gooey mozzarella, this recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a meal your whole family will crave.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 40 minutes, start to finish.
Crunchy on the outside, juicy inside no frying needed!
Kid-friendly and perfect for busy families.
Uses pantry staples and can be easily adapted for gluten-free diets.

Ingredient List

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Boneless, skinless chicken	4 breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half)	For even cooking and portioning
Seasoned breadcrumbs	3/4 cup	Try gluten-free if needed
Parmesan cheese, grated	1/4 cup	Romano works, too
Butter, melted	2 tbsp	Or olive oil
Part-skim mozzarella cheese	3/4 cup	Shredded
Marinara sauce	1 cup	Use your favorite jarred or homemade
Cooking spray	to coat tray & chicken	Olive oil spray recommended
Fresh basil or parsley	to garnish (optional)	For color and flavor

Ready to grab kitchen tools? Try these for best results:

air fryer (great for crisping!)
oven (essential for this recipe)
kitchen utensils
cutting board
chef’s knives
baking sheets

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven & Chicken: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Spray a large baking sheet lightly.
Mix and Coat: In a bowl, stir together breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Brush each chicken piece with melted butter, then dredge in breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides. Place on the baking sheet.
Bake – Step One: Lightly spray the top of the chicken with a bit of oil. Bake for 25 minutes.
Sauce & Cheese: Remove from oven. Spoon 1 tbsp marinara over each piece and top with 1½ tbsp mozzarella.
Bake – Step Two: Return to the oven and bake until cheese melts (about 5 minutes).
Finish: Sprinkle with chopped basil or parsley, if you like.

Essential Equipment

Tips for Success

Slice chicken breasts evenly for consistent cooking.
Freshly grate your Parmesan for extra flavor.
Don’t skip spraying the chicken before baking it helps crisp!
Serve with pasta, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and double-check your marinara.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Cool completely, then keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use an air fryer for this recipe?
Yes! Follow all steps, but air fry at 400°F for about 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, then top with sauce and cheese, and air fry 2-3 more minutes.

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Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan : Healthy Dinner In 30 Minutes

Print Recipe

This Baked Chicken Parmesan combines crispy baked chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty marinara for an easy and healthy dinner.

Author: Alex
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Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8

3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Romano)

2 tbsp butter, melted (or olive oil)

3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

Cooking spray

Fresh basil or parsley, optional

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 450°F. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray.

2. Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a bowl. Place melted butter in another bowl.

3. Brush butter onto each chicken piece, then coat in breadcrumb mixture. Arrange on baking sheet.

4. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray and bake for 25 minutes.

5. Remove from oven. Top each piece with 1 tbsp marinara and 1½ tbsp mozzarella.

6. Bake 5 minutes more, until cheese is melted.

7. Garnish with basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Make it gluten-free with GF breadcrumbs.

Try making this in your air fryer for extra crispiness!