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Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan with Fresh Mozzarella

crispy baked chicken Parmesan - featured image

A healthier, fuss-free version of classic chicken Parmesan featuring a crispy baked coating and creamy fresh mozzarella, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces or 170 grams each), pounded to even thickness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (60 grams)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (100 grams)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (240 ml)
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced about ¼ inch thick (225 grams)
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to about ½ inch (1.3 cm) thickness.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Set up dredging stations with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into eggs, and press firmly into breadcrumb mixture to coat well, including edges. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available. Arrange chicken breasts on the rack. Lightly brush olive oil over breadcrumb coating.
  5. Bake chicken in preheated oven for 15 minutes until golden and crisp.
  6. Remove baking sheet from oven. Spoon about 2 tablespoons marinara sauce over each piece, then top with 2-3 slices of fresh mozzarella. Return to oven and broil on high for 2-4 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use a wire rack for crispier crust. Watch broiler closely to avoid burning cheese. For gluten-free, substitute flour and breadcrumbs accordingly. Leftovers reheat best in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken, crispy chicken, fresh mozzarella, easy dinner, Italian recipe, healthy chicken parmesan