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Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

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This easy, healthier chicken Parmesan recipe features juicy, breadcrumb-coated chicken baked to golden crispness, topped with gooey mozzarella and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it delivers classic comfort with less fuss and guilt.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs, pounded to ½ inch thickness)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • 12 oz dried spaghetti
  • Salt (for boiling water)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment and pound to an even ½ inch thickness.
  2. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed together.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumb mixture to coat completely. Let coated chicken rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat oven to 425°F. Place a wire rack inside a baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil.
  5. Arrange chicken on wire rack, spray tops with olive oil, and bake for 20 minutes. Flip and bake another 5-8 minutes until golden and crisp, and chicken reaches 165°F internally.
  6. While chicken bakes, heat marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente (about 9-10 minutes). Drain and toss with a splash of olive oil or a ladle of sauce.
  8. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of sauce over each chicken breast, sprinkle with mozzarella and extra Parmesan, and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  9. Plate spaghetti, top with a chicken breast, drizzle with more sauce, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs and let breaded chicken rest before baking. Watch cheese closely while broiling to avoid burning. Substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version, or use dairy-free cheese for lactose intolerance. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken, family dinner, comfort food, Italian, easy recipe, crispy chicken, weeknight meal, kid-friendly, oven baked

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