Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan | Crispy Comfort in Every Bite

This oven baked chicken parmesan recipe is a comforting classic made easier and lighter. Instead of frying, we use the oven to achieve a crisp, golden coating with tender chicken inside, topped with a savory tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. It’s a flavorful, satisfying dish you can whip up with ease—perfect for family meals, casual entertaining, or prepping ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers on all the comforting flavors of traditional chicken parmesan without the mess of frying. Toasted breadcrumbs bring crunch, a rich homemade sauce adds depth, and creamy mozzarella melts beautifully on top. The whole process is straightforward and oven-friendly, with no need for standing at the stove. You can also prepare the sauce and components in advance, making dinner time faster and more convenient.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sauce:

• 25 oz (700 g) tomato passata
• 6 to 8 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: small pinch of sugar to balance acidity

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts (about 7 oz or 200 g each)
• 1 ¼ cups (75 g) panko breadcrumbs
• ⅔ cup (50 g) grated parmesan cheese (plus a little extra for topping)
• ⅓ cup (70 g) all-purpose flour
• 8 slices of fresh mozzarella (around 7 oz or 200 g total)
• 2 medium eggs, beaten
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ¾ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp ground black pepper

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan

Start by toasting the breadcrumbs in butter for a crisp, golden texture. In the same pan, create a flavorful tomato sauce by simmering passata with garlic, onion, and fresh basil. As the sauce simmers, flatten the chicken breasts and prepare your dredging stations with flour, egg, and the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture.

Each chicken piece is coated and baked until crispy, then topped with marinara and cheese before finishing under the broiler. The result? A perfectly baked chicken parmesan with a crunchy outside and tender, juicy interior.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Breadcrumbs
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the panko. Stir regularly until the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Transfer to a bowl and let them cool.

2. Prepare the Marinara Sauce
In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until soft. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly. Add passata, a splash of water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low for 20 minutes, letting the sauce thicken. Add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.

3. Flatten the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of cling film. Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to pound them evenly to about ½ inch thickness. Trim any excess or uneven edges.

4. Season the Coating Mix
Combine salt, garlic powder, oregano, and pepper. Split this blend—half goes into the flour, the other half into the breadcrumb mixture along with the grated parmesan.

5. Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken first in the seasoned flour, then the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated.

6. Bake the Chicken
Place the coated chicken breasts on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, flip them over, and bake another 5–10 minutes until the coating is golden and the chicken is fully cooked.

7. Add Sauce and Cheese
Remove the chicken from the rack and set them directly on the tray. Spoon marinara sauce over each, place two slices of mozzarella on top, and sprinkle with extra parmesan.

8. Broil Until Bubbling
Place the tray under the broiler and cook for 2–4 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.

9. Serve Immediately
Garnish with extra basil and serve hot with your favorite sides like pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Helpful Tips

Bake the chicken on a wire rack to promote airflow and prevent sogginess. Toasting the breadcrumbs is essential for crunch, so don’t skip it. Use quality tomatoes for the sauce and fresh mozzarella for the best melt. Broil at the end to re-crisp the crust and get that perfect cheesy top.

Details

Flavor: Savory, herby, cheesy, and satisfying
Texture: Crunchy coating, juicy chicken, soft melted cheese
Occasion: Weeknight dinners, meal prep, gatherings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Notes

Substitute canned crushed tomatoes for passata if needed—just simmer longer for a richer flavor. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour can be used for dietary needs. Mozzarella can be swapped with provolone or other meltable cheeses. Prep the sauce and breadcrumbs in advance to save time.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	700 kcal
Protein	69.6 g
Fat	30.3 g
Carbohydrates	34.9 g
Sugar	7.7 g

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep oven baked chicken parmesan crispy?
Toast your breadcrumbs beforehand and bake on a wire rack. Only add the sauce and cheese after baking, then broil briefly for a crisp finish.

Should chicken parmesan be baked or pan fried first?
This version is baked from start to finish. No frying is needed, making it easier and less messy while still turning out crispy.

What type of cheese works best for chicken parmesan?
Fresh mozzarella is ideal, but provolone or shredded mozzarella can also be used. Choose one that melts smoothly and complements the sauce.

Can oven baked chicken parmesan be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sauce and breadcrumbs in advance. Even the chicken can be flattened and seasoned ahead of time. Assemble and bake fresh for best texture.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven to keep the crust crisp. You can also freeze the breaded, uncooked chicken for later—just defrost and bake as directed.

Print

Conclusion

This oven baked chicken parmesan offers everything you want in a comfort food dish: crispy coating, juicy chicken, melty cheese, and bold marinara flavor. And the best part? It’s easier to make, lighter than fried versions, and still delivers on taste. Perfect for dinner tonight or preparing ahead for busy days. Give it a try and bring a little warmth to your table.

Related Recipes

• Pizza-Style Cottage Cheese Bake | Easy, High-Protein Comfort Food
• Super Moist Strawberry Banana Bread | Easy and Irresistible Anytime Treat
• Creamy Rice Pudding | Cozy Classic with a Silky Twist
• Homemade Naan Bread | Easy Skillet Recipe with No Yeast