Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Oven-Baked Goodness
Are you craving a classic Italian-American dish but don't want the deep-fried mess? This oven-baked Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers all the cheesy, saucy goodness without the extra oil. It's a healthier, easier, and just as delicious alternative to the traditional fried version. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this restaurant-quality meal!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- For the Sauce:
- 24 ounces marinara sauce (your favorite brand works!)
- For the Cheese:
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked Chicken Parmesan:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking. This step is crucial for tender chicken.
2. Bread the Chicken:
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs.
3. Bake the Chicken:
Place the breaded chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:
Remove the chicken from the oven and top each breast with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Finish Baking:
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your oven-baked Chicken Parmesan immediately. It's delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with:
- Spaghetti or other pasta: A classic combination!
- A side salad: Adds freshness and a healthy contrast.
- Garlic bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the taste!
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add more garlic, oregano, or other spices you enjoy.
- For extra crispy chicken: You can broil the chicken for the last few minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
This oven-baked Chicken Parmesan recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's simple enough for a weeknight meal but elegant enough for a special occasion. Enjoy!
