Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan Simple and Tasty Meal

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Looking for a warm, satisfying meal? Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is your answer! This simple dish packs a punch with its crispy coating and rich flavors. I’ll guide you through every step, from selecting ingredients to perfecting the bake. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself, you’ll love how easy it is to create a tasty dinner. Let’s dive in and make this delicious meal together!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 large chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 2 large eggs, beaten

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

To make an amazing oven-baked chicken parmesan, start with the chicken breasts. Pounding them to an even thickness helps them cook evenly. The flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs create a crispy coating. Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor. The blend of Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder adds depth to the dish. Marinara sauce is key for moisture and taste, while mozzarella gives that gooey, cheesy finish.

Optional Ingredients

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

– Variations in cheese types

Fresh basil makes a lovely garnish. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Try provolone or fontina for a new twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor and texture, making the meal even more exciting.

For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for making sure your chicken gets crispy.

2. Set up a breading station: You will need three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In the second, place 2 beaten eggs. In the third dish, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. This setup makes the coating process easy and organized.

Cooking Process

3. Coating the chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to stick the crumbs well. This will make your chicken crispy.

4. Baking times and temperatures: Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on top for extra crispiness. Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. It should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Finalizing the Dish

5. Adding marinara and mozzarella: After baking, take the chicken out of the oven. Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

6. Resting and garnishing tips: Return the chicken to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. If you like, you can garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

For the full recipe and more details, check the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy your tasty meal!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfect Crispiness

To get that perfect crunch on your Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan, choose panko breadcrumbs. They are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs. This helps create a crispier crust.

When you coat the chicken, don’t skip the olive oil. Drizzling a little olive oil on top of the breaded chicken adds flavor and helps it brown better. A light spray works well too!

Flavor Enhancements

You can make your chicken shine with herbs and spices. Try adding fresh basil or parsley for a nice touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a little kick.

For a tasty marinara sauce, consider making it at home. Use canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This can boost the flavor of your dish. If you’re short on time, a good store-bought sauce works fine too.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan with sides like spaghetti or a fresh salad. Garlic bread also complements the dish well.

For presentation, slice the chicken and arrange it on a plate. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle more cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.

If you want to know more about the recipe, check out the Full Recipe!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch chicken for other proteins. Turkey works well and has a mild flavor. If you want a plant-based option, try eggplant. Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, and follow the same breading steps. For cheese lovers avoiding dairy, there are great dairy-free cheese options. Look for brands made from nuts or soy. These melt nicely and add creaminess.

Flavor Infusions

To change up the taste, you can add different sauces. Pesto brings a fresh twist with its herby flavor. Alfredo sauce gives a rich, creamy base that pairs well with the chicken. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mix. This will spice things up and add a nice kick to your meal.

Cooking Techniques

If you want a quicker option, try the air fryer. It cooks the chicken faster and still makes it crispy. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15 minutes. You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Just marinate it first to keep it juicy. Then, grill over medium heat until cooked through. This method adds a nice char and is great for summer cooking.

For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To keep your chicken Parmesan fresh, let it cool first. Place the chicken in a shallow dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use airtight containers for better storage. This method helps retain moisture and flavor. Leftovers can last for up to three days in the fridge. Just be sure to label the container with the date.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag. This keeps out air and prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, move the chicken to the fridge to thaw overnight. This ensures even reheating.

Reheating Methods

To enjoy your chicken Parmesan again, reheating is key. The oven works best to keep it crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warm. For a quick option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often, until warm. This method keeps the chicken moist but may not keep it crispy.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. If it reads 165°F, your chicken is fully cooked.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, cooking from frozen takes longer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the frozen chicken for about 30-35 minutes before breading. Make sure to check the internal temperature. It should still reach 165°F when done.

What is the best type of cheese for Chicken Parmesan?

The best cheese for Chicken Parmesan is mozzarella. It melts well and gives that cheesy pull. Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. You can also try provolone for a twist. Each cheese brings a different taste, so pick what you like!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Chicken Parmesan, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or ground almonds. Ensure your flour is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal without gluten.

In this blog post, we explored the essential ingredients and steps for making Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan. We discussed main and optional ingredients, preparation and cooking methods, and helpful tips for perfect results. Remember to enjoy the freedom to vary flavors and techniques. Whether you stick to classic chicken or try alternatives, have fun in the kitchen. With the right storage methods, leftovers can remain just as delicious. Happy cooking!

- 2 large chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought) - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese To make an amazing oven-baked chicken parmesan, start with the chicken breasts. Pounding them to an even thickness helps them cook evenly. The flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs create a crispy coating. Use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor. The blend of Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder adds depth to the dish. Marinara sauce is key for moisture and taste, while mozzarella gives that gooey, cheesy finish. - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Variations in cheese types Fresh basil makes a lovely garnish. It adds color and a fresh taste. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Try provolone or fontina for a new twist. Each cheese brings its own flavor and texture, making the meal even more exciting. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. 1. Preheat the oven: Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for making sure your chicken gets crispy. 2. Set up a breading station: You will need three shallow dishes. In the first dish, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In the second, place 2 beaten eggs. In the third dish, mix 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. This setup makes the coating process easy and organized. 3. Coating the chicken: Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the flour. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat each piece in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to stick the crumbs well. This will make your chicken crispy. 4. Baking times and temperatures: Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil on top for extra crispiness. Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. It should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). 5. Adding marinara and mozzarella: After baking, take the chicken out of the oven. Pour 2 cups of marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. 6. Resting and garnishing tips: Return the chicken to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. You want the cheese to be bubbly and slightly golden. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. If you like, you can garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. For the full recipe and more details, check the [Full Recipe]. Enjoy your tasty meal! To get that perfect crunch on your Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan, choose panko breadcrumbs. They are larger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs. This helps create a crispier crust. When you coat the chicken, don’t skip the olive oil. Drizzling a little olive oil on top of the breaded chicken adds flavor and helps it brown better. A light spray works well too! You can make your chicken shine with herbs and spices. Try adding fresh basil or parsley for a nice touch. A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a little kick. For a tasty marinara sauce, consider making it at home. Use canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This can boost the flavor of your dish. If you’re short on time, a good store-bought sauce works fine too. Pair your Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan with sides like spaghetti or a fresh salad. Garlic bread also complements the dish well. For presentation, slice the chicken and arrange it on a plate. Pour marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle more cheese on top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. If you want to know more about the recipe, check out the Full Recipe! {{image_2}} You can switch chicken for other proteins. Turkey works well and has a mild flavor. If you want a plant-based option, try eggplant. Slice the eggplant into thick rounds, and follow the same breading steps. For cheese lovers avoiding dairy, there are great dairy-free cheese options. Look for brands made from nuts or soy. These melt nicely and add creaminess. To change up the taste, you can add different sauces. Pesto brings a fresh twist with its herby flavor. Alfredo sauce gives a rich, creamy base that pairs well with the chicken. If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to your breadcrumb mix. This will spice things up and add a nice kick to your meal. If you want a quicker option, try the air fryer. It cooks the chicken faster and still makes it crispy. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 15 minutes. You can also grill the chicken for a smoky flavor. Just marinate it first to keep it juicy. Then, grill over medium heat until cooked through. This method adds a nice char and is great for summer cooking. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To keep your chicken Parmesan fresh, let it cool first. Place the chicken in a shallow dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use airtight containers for better storage. This method helps retain moisture and flavor. Leftovers can last for up to three days in the fridge. Just be sure to label the container with the date. Freezing is a great option for longer storage. First, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped chicken in a freezer bag. This keeps out air and prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, move the chicken to the fridge to thaw overnight. This ensures even reheating. To enjoy your chicken Parmesan again, reheating is key. The oven works best to keep it crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until warm. For a quick option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, checking often, until warm. This method keeps the chicken moist but may not keep it crispy. To check if the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. If it reads 165°F, your chicken is fully cooked. Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, cooking from frozen takes longer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the frozen chicken for about 30-35 minutes before breading. Make sure to check the internal temperature. It should still reach 165°F when done. The best cheese for Chicken Parmesan is mozzarella. It melts well and gives that cheesy pull. Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. You can also try provolone for a twist. Each cheese brings a different taste, so pick what you like! To make gluten-free Chicken Parmesan, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones. You can use crushed gluten-free crackers or ground almonds. Ensure your flour is also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy this tasty meal without gluten. In this blog post, we explored the essential ingredients and steps for making Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan. We discussed main and optional ingredients, preparation and cooking methods, and helpful tips for perfect results. Remember to enjoy the freedom to vary flavors and techniques. Whether you stick to classic chicken or try alternatives, have fun in the kitchen. With the right storage methods, leftovers can remain just as delicious. Happy cooking!

Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan

Indulge in deliciousness with this crispy oven-baked chicken Parmesan recipe! Perfectly breaded chicken breasts are baked to golden perfection, topped with rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. It's an easy and crowd-pleasing dish that's ready in just 50 minutes. Click through to explore this mouthwatering recipe and impress your family with a homemade favorite they'll love!

Ingredients
  

2 large chicken breasts, pounded to an even thickness

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Set up a breading station: In one shallow dish, place the flour. In another dish, add the beaten eggs. In a third dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

      Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even layer.

        Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the tops for extra crispiness.

          Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

            Remove the chicken from the oven and pour marinara sauce over each breast. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top of the sauce.

              Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

                Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

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