Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan: Easy Family Dinner Favorite

Looking for a dinner that’s crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying—but still baked, not fried? Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan is your answer. This healthier twist on the Italian-American classic keeps all the flavor with less oil, and it’s ready in under 40 minutes. Would your family eat this every week? Ours would!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

• Healthier than traditional frying (less mess, less oil)
• Crispy outside, juicy inside
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep
• Kid-approved and picky-eater friendly

“Baking doesn’t mean compromising flavor—it means smarter cooking with the same delicious payoff.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise)
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (use your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Cooking spray or olive oil

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan

1: Prep the Chicken

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Pound chicken cutlets to even thickness for faster cooking.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper.

2: Bread the Chicken

• Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and garlic powder in a shallow bowl.
• Dip chicken in eggs, then press into breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

3: Bake Until Golden

• Place chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet (for max crispiness!).
• Spray tops with oil or cooking spray.
• Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4: Add Sauce & Cheese

• Spoon marinara over each cutlet, then top with shredded mozzarella.
• Return to oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

5: Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped basil or extra Parmesan.
• Serve with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Every Time

• Use a wire rack: Elevates the chicken for even crisping.
• Go light on the sauce: Too much can make it soggy.
• Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged.
• Double batch and freeze: Makes a great weeknight shortcut.

What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan

Here are some classic and creative pairing ideas:

• Spaghetti or angel hair pasta
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus)
• Caesar or arugula salad

Nutritional Benefits & Healthier Swaps

Baking instead of frying cuts calories significantly. Want it even lighter?

• Swap breadcrumbs for panko or almond flour
• Use part-skim mozzarella
• Try air-frying for extra crispness

Final Thoughts

Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan proves you don’t need a deep fryer to create a crave-worthy, comforting dinner. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.

Ready to try it tonight? Save this recipe and make your dinner table everyone’s favorite place to be.