Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts
About 1 pound of chicken total
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
fresh grated
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 2 tablespoon minced parsley
optional, for garnish
Directions
- 1
Line a baking sheet with foil, brush foil with olive oil. Adjust oven rack so that is in the second from the top space. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- 2
Cut the chicken breasts in half and pound to even thickness: Cut through the middle of the chicken breast as if you are going to butterfly it (cutting it open like a book), but cut all the way through to make two equal sized pieces.
- 3
After cutting the chicken breasts in half, place them in a gallon sized zip top bag in an even layer, seal it, then pound them to an even thickness using a meat pounder or a rolling pin. You can also place the chicken breasts between two layers of cling wrap instead of a zip top bag if you prefer.
- 4
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season with salt and pepper.
- 5
In one shallow dish, mix together panko bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper.
- 6
In another shallow dish, whisk one egg.
- 7
Dip one chicken breast into the egg, then into the bread crumb mixture. Ensure chicken breast is fully coated in the crumb mixture, and gently press with your hand do help the crumbs stick to the chicken. Place chicken breast on prepared baking sheet, repeat with remaining pieces of chicken.
- 8
Place baking sheet in oven on the second from the top rack. Bake for 15 minutes, or until cooked through.
- 9
Flip chicken, pour 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then top with cheese. Place back in the oven. Turn on the broiler. Broil for 2-4 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges of chicken are browning.
Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
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About this Recipe
Craving that comforting, classic Chicken Parmesan without the fuss and mess of deep frying? This Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan delivers all the rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture you love in just 30 minutes from start to finish.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by embracing the oven-baked method, transforming a traditionally fried dish into an effortless weeknight meal. Using panko bread crumbs ensures a wonderfully crispy coating on the chicken breasts, providing that essential crunch without the extra oil. Coupled with freshly grated Parmesan cheese in the breading, you get a depth of flavor that sets this dish apart, creating a perfectly seasoned base before it's topped with marinara and melted mozzarella.
What to Expect
You'll be greeted with tender, juicy chicken encased in a golden, crispy panko crust, smothered in a vibrant marinara sauce, and topped with a generous blanket of bubbly, melted mozzarella. The addition of dried oregano and garlic powder in the breading infuses every bite with aromatic Italian-inspired flavor. This quick and straightforward approach makes a delicious and impressive dinner that tastes like it took hours, but comes together in mere minutes.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat, ensuring they are similarly sized for even cooking. For a different cheese profile, consider adding a slice of provolone under the mozzarella. You can also elevate the breading with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. To make it a vegetarian delight, try using thickly sliced eggplant instead of chicken.
Serving & Context
This Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan is a perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner or a quick meal with friends. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta, a fresh green salad, or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.