There’s something timeless about the combination of golden, crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
This Chicken Parmesan Recipe in Oven brings all those comforting Italian flavors together in one easy, family-favorite meal.
It’s simple to make, baked instead of fried, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This oven-baked version is lighter than the traditional fried chicken parmesan yet still crispy and flavorful.
The cheese melts beautifully over the marinara for that perfect bubbly top.
It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes just like a restaurant-quality dish.
You can pair it with almost anything — pasta, garlic bread, or even roasted veggies.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish tender and juicy.
Breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese form a golden, crunchy coating.
Marinara sauce adds rich tomato flavor that complements the melted mozzarella.
Eggs help bind the coating for even crispness.
A drizzle of olive oil enhances the crust’s texture and color.
Fresh basil adds brightness and aroma when served.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the chicken dry before breading so the coating sticks perfectly.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture.
Don’t skip the olive oil drizzle — it helps create a crisp, golden crust.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juiciness.
If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan in Oven
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In one shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
In another, whisk the eggs.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
Arrange the chicken on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F or 74°C).
Remove from the oven, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, and top with mozzarella cheese.
Return to bake another 5–7 minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with chopped fresh basil.
Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete, hearty meal.
What to Serve Them With
This Chicken Parmesan pairs beautifully with buttery spaghetti or creamy fettuccine.
Enjoy it alongside garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp Caesar salad.
It’s also delicious over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap chicken breasts for boneless thighs for extra tenderness.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Try provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for richer flavor.
Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach under the cheese layer for a veggie boost.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F until warm — this helps keep the crust crisp.
You can freeze baked chicken (without sauce) for up to 2 months, then add sauce and cheese when reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze cooked chicken parmesan?
Absolutely. Freeze without sauce for the best texture and add it fresh when reheating.
How do I keep the breading from getting soggy?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to restore crispness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work great and tend to stay extra juicy.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
What’s the best pasta to serve with it?
Spaghetti, linguine, or penne work perfectly for soaking up the sauce.
Can I air-fry this recipe instead of baking?
Yes! Cook at 375°F for about 14–16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I add more cheese?
Of course — a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan makes it even more indulgent.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! The cheesy, crispy texture is always a hit with kids.
How do I know when it’s perfectly cooked?
Use a thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Parmesan Recipe in Oven delivers all the comfort of a classic Italian dish with less effort and oil.
Every bite is packed with crisp coating, melted cheese, and tangy tomato sauce — it’s the kind of meal that makes any night feel special.
Once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
