WHY THIS OVEN-BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN IS A MUST-TRY?
Irresistible Combination: Picture succulent chicken breasts coated in a crispy, herb-infused panko and parmesan crust, bathed in rich marinara sauce, and generously topped with melted mozzarella cheese. The flavors meld together perfectly to create a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Simple Yet Impressive: Impress your loved ones with this restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in under an hour.
Versatile and Family-Friendly: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or Italian cuisine enthusiasts, this recipe caters to all tastes. Pair it with pasta, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Healthier Twist: By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you can enjoy the same incredible taste with a lighter touch. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 450g or 1 lb.)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, then brush the foil with olive oil.
Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally, creating two equal-sized pieces. Place them in a gallon-sized zip-top bag or between two layers of cling wrap.
Using a meat pounder or a rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender results.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper.
In a shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In another shallow dish, whisk the egg.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg, coating it well, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently with your hand to help the crumbs adhere to the chicken. Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces.
Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake on the second-from-the-top rack for approximately 15 minutes or until cooked through.
Flip the chicken breasts, spoon 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece, and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top.
Turn on the broiler and place the baking sheet back in the oven. Broil for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges of the chicken are nicely browned.
Remove from the oven and garnish with minced parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes:
For a gluten-free option, replace the panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Customize the level of spiciness by using a mild or spicy marinara sauce.
Feel free to add your favorite Italian herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture to enhance the flavors.
This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
In conclusion, Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the flavors of tender chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, zesty marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. With its irresistible taste and simple preparation, it has the power to turn any ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a delicious homemade dish, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you craving for more. Give this Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan a try and let your taste buds rejoice in the comfort and indulgence it delivers.