Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and baked to perfection. It’s a lightened-up version of a traditional dish, using wholesome ingredients and less oil. The recipe is easy to follow, uses simple pantry staples, and takes about an hour from start to finish. It’s a great go-to when you want something comforting but also nutritious.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
- Whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- Eggs
- Whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- Parmesan cheese
- Shredded mozzarella
- Marinara sauce (homemade or low-sugar store-bought)
- Black pepper, dried basil, dried parsley
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prep the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts thin. Dip each piece first in flour, then beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture seasoned with herbs.
- Bake the Chicken: Place breaded cutlets on the baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Top and Broil: Remove the pan, top each cutlet with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Return to the oven under the broiler for about 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Broil Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
Variations
- Low Carb: Use almond flour rind crumbs instead of wheat flour and breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Try dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives.
- Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
FAQs
Can baked chicken parmesan be made ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the chicken ahead and bake just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Is it better to bake this dish covered or uncovered?
Uncovered is best to keep the chicken crispy and let the cheese melt beautifully.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Breasts are preferred for a leaner dish, but thighs can be used if trimmed well.
What’s the best type of mozzarella to use?
Fresh mozzarella melts best, but pre-shredded mozzarella works fine too.
How do I keep the crust crispy?
Bake on parchment, don’t overcrowd the pan, and serve immediately after baking.
Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s not ideal due to the texture change, but you can freeze breaded, uncooked cutlets and bake them later.
Can I use jarred marinara sauce?
Yes, just choose one with low sugar and sodium for a healthier option.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but it can be made gluten-free with 1:1 flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What sides go well with chicken parmesan?
Try it with zucchini noodles, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a Caesar salad.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—internal temp should be 165°F.
Conclusion
This Baked Chicken Parmesan is a lighter version of the classic that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With its crispy coating, gooey cheese, and rich marinara sauce, it’s a wholesome dinner you can feel good about. Easy to make and endlessly delicious, this is sure to be a repeat favorite on your dinner table.
Print
Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Total Time: ~50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic, made with whole wheat breadcrumbs and baked instead of fried. It’s crispy, cheesy, and comforting—perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
Whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
Eggs
Whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
Parmesan cheese, grated
Black pepper
Dried basil
Dried parsley
For Topping:
Marinara sauce (homemade or low-sugar store-bought)
Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Prep Chicken: Pound chicken thin. Dredge in flour, then beaten eggs, then breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture seasoned with herbs and pepper.
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Bake: Place coated chicken on prepared sheet. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Top and Broil: Remove from oven, top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella. Broil 2 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
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Serve: Let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Notes
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Low Carb: Swap wheat flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour.
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Dairy-Free: Use plant-based mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Extra Crispy: Bake on a wire rack for even crispier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
