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Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe Easy Homemade Gooey Mozzarella

crispy baked chicken parmesan - featured image

A lighter, healthier twist on classic chicken Parmesan featuring a crispy breadcrumb crust and gooey melted mozzarella, baked to perfection for a quick and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60 g)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (150 g), preferably Japanese brand
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Olive oil spray or 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (240 ml)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella (225 g), sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. Pound the chicken breasts to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  4. Dredge each chicken piece first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, letting extra drip off. Coat thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  5. Arrange breaded chicken on the wire rack or directly on the baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over each piece.
  6. Bake for 20 minutes until the crust is golden and chicken is almost cooked through.
  7. Remove from oven, spoon about 2 tablespoons (30 ml) marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with slices of fresh mozzarella.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

If chicken browns too quickly before cheese melts, tent loosely with foil and continue baking. Use a wire rack for extra crispness. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs accordingly. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese alternatives. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent soggy breading. Reheat in oven to maintain crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken, crispy chicken, mozzarella, easy dinner, comfort food, family meal