Chicken Parmesan, a classic comfort food, is usually associated with deep-frying, leading to a greasy and time-consuming process. But what if you could achieve that same crispy, juicy, and flavorful experience without the mess and extra calories? This oven-baked Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers just that! It's easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and yields incredibly delicious results. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food, elevated!
What Makes This Oven Chicken Parmesan Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its focus on achieving that perfect balance of crispy breading and juicy chicken without deep-frying. We accomplish this through a few key techniques: a double-breadcrumbing method for extra crispiness, a quick pan-sear for added flavor and texture, and a strategic baking process to ensure the chicken cooks through evenly while the breading remains golden brown and delightfully crunchy. The result? A lighter, healthier, yet undeniably satisfying Chicken Parmesan.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs are recommended)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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For the Sauce:
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (your favorite brand will do!)
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For the Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
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Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese in separate shallow dishes. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. For extra crispy results, repeat the breadcrumb coating process.
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Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breaded chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown. This step adds incredible flavor and helps create a crispier exterior.
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Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet (or chicken breasts to a baking dish) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
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Broil (Optional): For extra melty and bubbly cheese, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
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Serve: Let the Chicken Parmesan rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you'll need to increase the baking time. Thaw the chicken completely before breading and searing. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time, depending on the size and thickness of the breasts. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What kind of breadcrumbs are best?
Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs are highly recommended as they add extra flavor. However, you can use regular breadcrumbs if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This can save time on busy weeknights. However, it's best to bake the chicken just before serving to maintain optimal crispiness.
What can I serve with oven chicken parmesan?
Oven Chicken Parmesan pairs perfectly with classic sides like spaghetti, fettuccine, or even a simple side salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don't overcook the chicken! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without exceeding this temperature. The searing step also helps to lock in moisture.
This oven-baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a delicious and convenient alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. Enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness without the guilt! Let me know how yours turns out in the comments below!
