Chicken Breast Parmesan

Name: Chicken Breast Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A deliciously crispy and cheesy chicken breast topped with marinara sauce and baked to perfection.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-24T18:42:34.188Z

This Chicken Breast Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that brings together tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and a cheesy topping that will leave everyone wanting more.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy chicken coated in a savory, cheesy crust
Rich marinara sauce that complements the chicken perfectly
Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

Chicken Breast Parmesan is an ideal dish for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines the simplicity of baking with the classic flavors of Italian cuisine, ensuring you can whip up a delightful dinner in no time. The chicken cooks to a golden crisp while remaining juicy on the inside, making it a family favorite.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that will impress both your family and guests. The combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella is sure to satisfy any craving. Plus, this dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete and delicious dinner.

Customizing Your Chicken Parmesan

One of the great things about Chicken Breast Parmesan is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or substituting the marinara sauce with a homemade tomato sauce packed with fresh herbs.

You can also experiment with different cheeses. While mozzarella is a classic choice, adding provolone or even a sprinkle of feta can elevate the flavor profile. For those who love spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to tailor this dish to your liking.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, Chicken Breast Parmesan stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the crispy texture intact, store the chicken in an airtight container without the marinara sauce. When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method helps retain the chicken's crunchiness rather than making it soggy in the microwave.

For longer storage, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before baking. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, then freeze the coated chicken. When you're ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes for a quick and easy meal option when you're short on time!

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to use good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In one bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. In another bowl, beat the eggs.

Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.

Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove the chicken from the oven, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Finish Baking

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Pair it with a side salad or pasta for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Breast Parmesan is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides. A classic choice is spaghetti or another pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic, which complements the marinara sauce perfectly. Alternatively, serve it alongside a light green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese.

For a heartier meal, consider adding roasted vegetables or a side of garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. These accompaniments not only enhance the meal but also add more color and nutrition to your plate.

Nutritional Information

Chicken Breast Parmesan is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of cheese provides calcium and phosphorus, which are vital for bone health.

While the dish does have some carbohydrates from the breadcrumbs and marinara sauce, it can be modified to fit various dietary preferences. For example, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or low-sugar marinara to make it more suitable for specific diets without sacrificing flavor.

Why Homemade is Best

Making Chicken Breast Parmesan at home allows you to control the ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking. Store-bought versions often contain preservatives and additives that can detract from the dish's quality. By preparing it yourself, you can ensure that each component is fresh and flavorful.

Additionally, cooking at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Involving family members in the preparation can create a bonding experience, making mealtime even more special. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked chicken wafting through your home!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and will be juicier.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

It pairs well with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked Chicken Parmesan for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven.