Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan

Name: Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty Meals

I absolutely love making Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan for a weeknight dinner. It's not only easy to prepare, but the flavors meld together beautifully while baking. I enjoy the crunchy topping paired with the juicy chicken and aromatic marinara sauce. Each bite brings a satisfying blend of savory and cheesy goodness that is guaranteed to impress. It’s the perfect dish when I want to enjoy something hearty yet hassle-free—my family always asks for seconds!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-27T11:45:28.526Z

During one of my culinary adventures, I decided to experiment by baking my chicken instead of frying it for a healthier alternative. I loved how it turned out; the chicken was crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside. The marinara sauce I used had just the right amount of herbs which really penetrated the meat as it baked.

One tip I found invaluable was letting the breadcrumbs sit with Italian seasoning for a bit before coating the chicken. This added an extra layer of flavor that made all the difference. Trust me, you’ll want to savor each bite of this dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich flavors from homemade marinara sauce
Crispy coating that stays crunchy even after baking
Comfort food that the whole family will enjoy

Perfecting the Chicken

When prepping the chicken breasts, it's crucial to ensure they are evenly seasoned. I recommend using about 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper on each side to enhance the natural flavors. Depending on the thickness, you might consider gently pounding the chicken to an even thickness of about 1 inch; this promotes even cooking and minimizes the risk of dry spots.

For the best results, let the seasoned chicken sit for about 15 minutes before coating it in breadcrumbs. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat, leading to more flavorful chicken and a moist interior. By taking this extra time, you ensure that the seasoning truly enhances every bite.

Bread Crumb Mastery

The breading is where Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan truly shines. A mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs creates a delightful contrast: the panko adds extra crunch, while the regular breadcrumbs help adhere better. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some grated garlic or onion powder to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Make sure to coat the chicken generously in the breadcrumb mixture. Use a fork to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the surface; this will help create a thicker, crispier crust. A light spray of olive oil on top before baking helps the coating achieve a beautiful golden brown color and enhances the overall crunch.

Serving and Storing

Once you have baked your chicken, let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender and juicy. I love serving this dish with a side of spaghetti tossed in marinara or a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the richness of the chicken.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal reheating, place the chicken back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy texture of the topping rather than using a microwave, which can sometimes make it soggy.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to bring this tasty dish to life:

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Ensure you have everything ready before starting to make the cooking process smooth!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.

Coat the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.

Add Marinara and Cheese

Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour marinara sauce over each piece, then top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden.

Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pair your Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan with a side salad or pasta for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to the marinara sauce while baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the dish or make it gluten-free, swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative or even crushed cornflakes for crunch. Additionally, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor; just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time slightly as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish completely dairy-free. This step allows everyone at the table to enjoy the meal, regardless of dietary preferences.

Variations on the Classic

To give this dish a twist, consider adding some chopped fresh basil or spinach to the marinara sauce before topping the chicken. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a touch of color and nutrition, making the dish feel more gourmet.

You can also play with the cheese combination—using a mix of provolone and mozzarella or even adding a bit of smelly blue cheese for some bold flavor. Each variation can bring a new experience to this comforting classic, perfect for repeat dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work well; just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze the baked chicken for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed cornflakes or panko crumbs for a lighter, crispier texture.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Certainly! You can assemble it up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking.