There’s something about a weeknight meal that feels extra special when it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence. Crispy Italian Baked Parmesan Chicken delivers exactly that: a golden, crunchy crust that gives way to a tender, juicy interior, all brought together by a blanket of savory marinara and bubbling mozzarella. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—this Italian Baked Parmesan Chicken is a must-try for any weeknight dinner! Even if you’re new to the kitchen, you’ll love how beginner-friendly this recipe is, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, 35 minutes of baking, and a brief 5-minute rest before serving. With about 550 calories per serving, it’s hearty enough to satisfy and versatile enough to pair with pasta, salad, or steamed veggies for a complete, comforting meal.
What makes this dish truly shine is how effortlessly it brings a taste of Italy into your home. Savor the crunch of golden, cheesy breadcrumbs and the rich zest of marinara in this simple baked chicken dish that brings Italy to your table effortlessly. I still remember the first time I made it for my family: the moment I opened the oven door, a wave of warm, herby goodness filled the kitchen, and everyone gathered around, eager for that first bite. It’s that inviting aroma, combined with straightforward steps and accessible ingredients, that turns dinner into an experience. Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, this Parmesan-crusted chicken is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your weekly rotation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CRISPY ITALIAN BAKED PARMESAN CHICKEN
Before you get started, let’s take a closer look at the essential ingredients that come together to create that irresistible texture and flavor. Each component plays a unique role in achieving the perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and zesty tomato undertones.
- Chicken breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts serve as the lean, juicy foundation of this dish. Their mild flavor allows the breadcrumb crust and tomato sauce to shine, while their uniform shape ensures even cooking.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
These basic seasonings are essential for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken. A light dusting on both sides ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.
- All-purpose flour
The first step in the breading process, flour helps the beaten egg adhere to the chicken. It also creates a light base layer that contributes to the overall crispiness.
- Eggs
Beaten eggs act as the binding agent, ensuring that the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture clings tightly to the chicken for an even, golden crust.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs
These seasoned crumbs bring a classic Italian flavor and the bulk of the crunchy texture. For an extra-crisp finish, you can swap in panko breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan cheese
Grated Parmesan infuses the coating with its nutty, salty richness. It also caramelizes slightly in the oven for that signature golden hue.
- Dried Italian herbs
A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme adds aromatic depth, transporting your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean.
- Garlic powder
This pantry staple delivers a mellow garlic flavor without the risk of burning fresh garlic under high heat.
- Melted unsalted butter
Drizzling melted butter over the breaded chicken helps the crust brown beautifully and adds a silky richness.
- Marinara sauce
A vibrant tomato sauce provides a tangy counterpoint to the savory crust, keeping each bite moist and full of flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
Melting mozzarella on top creates a gooey, stretchy layer that contrasts wonderfully with the crisp coating.
- Fresh basil
Chopped basil sprinkled at the end brings a pop of fresh, herbaceous brightness and a burst of color.
HOW TO MAKE CRISPY ITALIAN BAKED PARMESAN CHICKEN
When you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, you’ll find the process both fun and rewarding. These steps will guide you through creating a flawlessly breaded chicken, baking it to golden perfection, and topping it with sauce and cheese for that classic Italian feel:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Season the chicken breasts by sprinkling both sides evenly with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This foundational step ensures each bite is well-flavored.
3. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and a third with a mixture of Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and garlic powder. Having everything organized in advance speeds up the breading process.
4. Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, gently coating both sides. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick, even crust that will bake to golden-brown perfection.
5. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, leaving a little space between each piece for even heat circulation. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, which helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and adds luxurious flavor.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This initial bake cooks the chicken through under the crunchy coating. After 20 minutes, flip each chicken breast, then spoon generous dollops of marinara sauce over the top.
7. Top each piece with a blanket of shredded mozzarella cheese, then return to the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the coating to firm up. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil for a fragrant, colorful garnish.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CRISPY ITALIAN BAKED PARMESAN CHICKEN
Once that cheesy topping is bubbling and the breadcrumbs are perfectly crisp, you’ll want to serve this dish in a way that complements its textures and flavors. Whether you’re plating a family dinner or entertaining friends, these suggestions will elevate your presentation and round out the meal beautifully.
- Serve over al dente pasta tossed in extra marinara sauce to soak up every bit of that cheesy, herby goodness. A sprinkling of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil add flair.
- Pair with a bright green salad, featuring crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken. Don’t forget a few fresh basil leaves to tie the flavors together.
- Offer on toasted garlic bread or soft ciabatta rolls to create delightful sandwiches. Layer a chicken breast, a spoonful of sauce, and extra melted mozzarella for a handheld twist.
- Complement with roasted or steamed vegetables—think broccoli florets, zucchini ribbons, or green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic—for a colorful, healthful side that balances the indulgent crust.
HOW TO STORE CRISPY ITALIAN BAKED PARMESAN CHICKEN
If you happen to have leftovers (and it’s hard not to!), proper storage will keep your chicken tasting fresh and delicious. Whether you plan to refrigerate or freeze, these tips will help you maintain that signature crispiness and cheesy flavor—so you can enjoy it again and again without losing quality.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container within two hours of baking. Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then nestle each piece side by side, separating layers with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking.
- Store sauce separately if possible. Keeping the marinara and chicken apart preserves the crispiness of the coating. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the chicken on a baking sheet and gently warm the sauce on the stove.
- Freeze for longer storage by wrapping each cooled chicken breast in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe, airtight container or bag. This double layer prevents freezer burn and locks in flavor for up to three months.
- Reheat carefully by baking at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This helps restore the crunchy coating better than a microwave, which can make the breading soggy.
CONCLUSION
This Crispy Italian Baked Parmesan Chicken recipe has everything you need for an effortless yet show-stopping dinner. From the moment you pull the golden, breadcrumb-crusted breasts out of the oven to the first satisfying chew of warm mozzarella and tangy marinara, you’ll understand why this dish has fast become a beloved weeknight staple. We’ve covered all the essentials—the flavorful blend of Italian herbs, the foolproof three-step breading technique, and the final cheese-and-sauce flourish. Don’t forget the fresh basil garnish, which adds a bright, aromatic finish to each plate.
Feel free to print and save this article so it’s always within arm’s reach in your kitchen. You can also find a FAQ below to help with any questions that pop up as you prepare this dish. If you give this recipe a try or discover a creative twist of your own, I’d love to hear about it! Please leave your comments, questions, or feedback—whether you need help perfecting that crispy coating or want to share a side dish pairing that stole the show. Happy cooking, and buon appetito!
Crispy Italian Baked Parmesan Chicken
Description
Savor the crunch of golden, cheesy breadcrumbs and the rich zest of marinara in this simple baked chicken dish that brings Italy to your table effortlessly.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
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Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and garlic powder.
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Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.
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Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the chicken.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts, spoon marinara sauce over each one, and top with mozzarella cheese.
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Continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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Remove from the oven and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
Note
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Serve with pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Leftovers make a great sandwich filling the next day.
