Description
A classic Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe featuring breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, baked to golden perfection in just 30 minutes. This easy-to-make dish combines crispy coatings with tender chicken, ideal for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce and Topping
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with foil and brush it lightly with olive oil. Adjust the oven rack so it is the second from the top position and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create two equal-sized pieces. Then place them in a gallon-sized zip-top bag in a single layer, seal, and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until the thickness is even throughout.
- Season the chicken: Remove the chicken from the bag, pat dry with paper towels, and season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Mix the breading: In a shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare egg wash: In another shallow dish, whisk the egg until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken piece first into the egg wash, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well. Arrange the coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven on the second rack from the top. Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating begins to crisp.
- Add sauce and cheese: Flip each piece of chicken over gently. Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Broil until bubbly: Turn on the oven broiler and place the baking sheet back into the oven. Broil for 2 to 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges of the chicken are browning slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, optionally sprinkle with minced parsley, and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- You can use fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a creamier texture.
- Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded evenly to cook uniformly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For a crispy crust, use panko bread crumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
