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Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe Easy Extra Cheese Perfect Dinner

crispy baked chicken parmesan - featured image

This crispy baked chicken parmesan features a crunchy panko and parmesan crust with extra melty mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection for a quick, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (68 oz each), flattened evenly
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60 g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (150 g), preferably Japanese brand
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (170 g), whole milk mozzarella recommended
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (240 ml), homemade or store-bought
  • Olive oil or cooking spray, for coating
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional), for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If using, place a wire rack on top to help air circulate around the chicken for crispier results.
  2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag. Gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thick and even. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
  3. Set up your breading station: In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second, beat the eggs. In a third, combine the panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese, mixing well.
  4. Lightly coat each piece of chicken in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is well coated.
  5. Place the breaded chicken on the wire rack or directly on the lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the top to help the crust brown during baking.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through if not using a wire rack, until the crust is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove the chicken from the oven, spoon about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of marinara sauce on each piece, then evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top.
  8. Return to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown in spots.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.

Notes

If chicken isn’t crisp enough after baking, broil for 1-2 minutes before adding sauce. Use a wire rack for even crisping. Season generously. Watch broil step carefully to avoid burning cheese. For gluten-free, substitute flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken, crispy chicken, easy dinner, cheesy chicken, panko crust, weeknight meal