There’s just something magical about crispy chicken, melty cheese, and savory tomato flavors all baked into one golden dish.
This baked chicken parmesan has quickly become one of my go-to comfort meals — it’s rich, flavorful, and easier to make than you’d think!
Every bite reminds me of Sunday dinners growing up, where the smell of garlic and parmesan would fill the house.
Now, I get to recreate that joy in under an hour — and my family devours it every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It brings together crispy fried-style chicken and baked cheesy goodness, but without the heaviness of deep frying.
The combination of parmesan in the crust and melted mozzarella on top is absolutely irresistible.
It’s family-friendly, weeknight-easy, and restaurant-worthy.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Boneless chicken breasts – Lean and perfect for breading and baking.
Breadcrumbs + Parmesan cheese – This combo gives the chicken a crunchy, cheesy crust.
Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over the baked chicken.
Garlic and Italian seasoning – Add that classic Italian-inspired aroma.
Eggs, milk, and flour – The trifecta for the perfect breading process.
Olive oil – Just enough to crisp the coating before baking.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Grate the Parmesan fresh for best flavor and melt.
Let the cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving so the juices stay in.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
Step 1: Prep Your Coating Stations
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Set up three shallow dishes:
Dish 1: Add the flour.
Dish 2: Beat eggs with milk.
Dish 3: Mix breadcrumbs, half the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off excess Then dip into the egg mixture, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture.
Press gently to coat both sides evenly.
Step 3: Pan-Sear for Crunch
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Sear the breaded chicken for 3–4 minutes per side, just until golden brown.
Transfer them to a baking dish.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the remaining Parmesan with shredded mozzarella and minced garlic.
Sprinkle generously over each chicken breast.
Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes until chicken is fully cooked and cheese is bubbly and golden.
What to Serve It With
I love serving this dish over buttery spaghetti or creamy mashed potatoes.
A crisp Caesar salad or steamed broccoli helps balance the richness.
Variations / Substitutions
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
Go gluten-free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Add marinara: Spoon tomato sauce on top before adding the mozzarella.
Air fryer version: Cook the breaded chicken in an air fryer at 380°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the coating crispy.
Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay juicy — just adjust baking time slightly.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer — internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Bread and sear the chicken, then refrigerate. Add cheese and bake when ready.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze after baking. Reheat in oven from frozen at 375°F until heated through.
What can I use instead of mozzarella?
Try provolone or fontina for a delicious twist.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap Parmesan for vegan cheese and use plant-based milk and dairy-free mozzarella.
What breadcrumbs are best?
Panko gives the crispiest texture, but regular or Italian-style work great too.
Final Thoughts
This baked chicken parmesan is pure comfort in every bite — crispy, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavor.
It’s perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, and once you try it, it might just become a regular in your rotation like it has in mine.
Bake it once, and you’ll see why it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Set up three dishes: flour in one, beaten eggs with milk in another, and a mix of breadcrumbs, half the Parmesan.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing to coat.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook each chicken breast 3–4 minutes per side until golden.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/baked-chicken-parmesan-recipe/
