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Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

A quick, family-friendly baked chicken Parmesan that crisps with a cheesy parmesan coating and finishes under bubbling marinara and melted mozzarella. Ready in under an hour and perfect served with pasta or a simple salad.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Chicken & Coating

  • 2.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 cutlets)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried minced garlic
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp finely grated lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

Sauce & Cheese

  • 1 1/4 cup marinara sauce
  • 7 oz shredded part-skim mozzarella

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking.
  • Slice each chicken breast horizontally if needed so you have six even cutlets (about 5–6 ounces each). Pat them dry with paper towels so the coating adheres.
  • In a shallow bowl whisk the egg until smooth. In a second wide bowl combine the grated Parmesan, dried garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, black pepper, salt and the lemon zest; toss to distribute evenly.
  • One at a time, dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off, then press both sides into the Parmesan-spice mixture so the cutlet is well coated. Place the coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between them.
  • Bake the chicken, uncovered, for 18 to 22 minutes until the thickest part reaches about 150°F on an instant-read thermometer and the coating looks set and lightly golden.
  • Remove the pan from the oven. Spoon roughly 2 to 3 tablespoons of marinara over each cutlet, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
  • Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake 7 to 10 more minutes, until the chicken registers 160°F and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you want a browned finish, slide under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes—watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
  • Let the chicken rest 4 to 5 minutes on the baking sheet before serving to allow juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly.
  • Serve warm over pasta, with zucchini noodles, or alongside a green salad and extra lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Tip: For crispier edges, place the chicken on a wire rack set over the baking sheet so air circulates under the cutlets while baking. Make-ahead: assemble through step 4, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before baking.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.