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Easy Kid-Approved Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

baked chicken parmesan - featured image

This baked chicken Parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and kid-approved, made without deep frying. It uses a secret mayonnaise trick to keep the chicken moist and the breading golden, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (about ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon pepper)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray it lightly with olive oil.
  2. Place chicken breasts on a cutting board. If thick, cover with plastic wrap and pound to about ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  3. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and mayonnaise until smooth. In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides. Place on the prepared wire rack.
  5. Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and breading is starting to turn golden.
  7. Remove from oven. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each chicken breast and top with about ⅓ cup of shredded mozzarella.
  8. Return to oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let rest for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

The mayonnaise in the egg wash is key for moisture and browning. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko or crushed pork rinds. To avoid a soggy bottom, use a wire rack. If making a double batch, use two baking sheets and rotate halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, baked chicken parmesan, kid-friendly, crispy chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal