Name: Chicken Parmesan Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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There’s nothing quite as comforting—or crowd-pleasing—as a bubbling Chicken Parmesan Bake. Imagine perfectly juicy chicken nestled under golden, cheesy layers, all soaking up a rich tomato sauce. This recipe transforms the classic into an easy, oven-friendly dish, making it just as inviting on busy weeknights as it is for cozy Sunday suppers. Whether you’re a longtime lover of Italian-American flavors or on the hunt for a cheesy, satisfying dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, this Chicken Parmesan Bake will win over your family and friends every single time.

Chicken Parmesan Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple pantry staples come together to form the heart and soul of this delicious meal. Each ingredient plays a role; from the chicken, which stays wonderfully tender under a crispy topping, to the vibrant sauce and gooey cheese that make every bite sing.

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show—choose plump, evenly sized pieces for the juiciest results.
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Adds that crave-worthy crunch and packs in the herby flavor.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty richness that amplifies the classic “parm” experience.
2 cups marinara sauce: A tangy-sweet base that keeps the chicken moist and ties everything together.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This is what gives our Chicken Parmesan Bake its signature gooey, melty top.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Boosts the savoriness while keeping prep super easy—no chopping needed!
1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings that quintessential Italian aroma and a hint of green speckle.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning every layer.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of warmth without overpowering.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Coats the chicken so the breadcrumb mixture sticks and bakes up perfectly.
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): For a final burst of freshness and color that really makes your dish pop.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Give your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of oil or nonstick spray—this ensures easy cleanup and helps the chicken lift out in beautiful, intact pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoned Breading

In a small bowl, stir together the Italian-style breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This mixture creates a seasoned crust that gives the Chicken Parmesan Bake its addictive crunch and flavor in every forkful.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Rub each chicken breast with a drizzle of olive oil, making sure they’re evenly coated. Next, press both sides of each piece into the breadcrumb mixture, covering completely. As you work, you’ll see and feel how that cheesy, herby breading clings to the chicken—this guarantees a perfect bake!

Step 4: Arrange and Add Sauce

Nestle the breaded chicken breasts snugly into your prepared baking dish. Spoon the marinara sauce over each piece, spreading it so the chicken is covered but the edges can crisp up. The sauce will keep everything juicy and infuse your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

Step 5: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce-smothered chicken. Don’t skimp—this bubbly, golden cheese topping is a hallmark of any great Chicken Parmesan Bake!

Step 6: Bake Covered, Then Uncover

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes. This steamy first bake ensures the chicken cooks through gently and stays moist. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and return the dish to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked (it should reach 165°F internally) and the top is gloriously golden with molten cheese.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Give your Chicken Parmesan Bake a well-deserved five-minute rest before serving. This helps the juices redistribute in the chicken and makes slicing and plating extra tidy.

How to Serve Chicken Parmesan Bake

Garnishes

A scattering of fresh basil or parsley just before serving brightens the whole dish visually and flavors every bite with fresh, herby notes. It’s a simple touch, but it transforms the finished Chicken Parmesan Bake from “weeknight dinner” to “restaurant-worthy.”

Side Dishes

This oven-baked classic is crying out for some cozy, Italian-inspired sides. Think a generous pile of spaghetti or linguine to catch every bit of extra marinara and cheese, a basket of garlicky bread for scooping, or a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Chicken Parmesan Bake into a showstopper by serving it over creamy polenta or on toasted ciabatta for sandwich-style bliss. Or, slice the baked chicken over a big family-style pasta platter, letting everyone help themselves for a cheerful, interactive meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Lucky you! Let any remaining Chicken Parmesan Bake cool completely, then cover and refrigerate within two hours. It’ll keep beautifully for up to three days—just be sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain that delicious, cheesy moisture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual portions (or the entire dish) tightly in foil and then in plastic wrap, or store in freezer-safe containers. The Chicken Parmesan Bake will be just as tasty reheated within two months—ideal for those nights when you need comfort food fast.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers by covering the dish with foil and baking at 350°F until hot and the cheese is melty—usually about 20 minutes. For single servings, the microwave works fine, though finishing under the broiler for a few minutes will restore some crispy texture to the cheese and breadcrumbs.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed—bone-in pieces may take longer, while boneless thighs often cook a bit faster.

How do I make my Chicken Parmesan Bake even crispier?

For a super-crispy finish, quickly pan-sear the breaded chicken breasts in a bit of oil for 2 to 3 minutes per side before arranging in the baking dish. This step is optional, but it makes each bite extra irresistible!

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Of course! Use your favorite brand (or a homemade sauce if you have it on hand). A flavorful marinara really brings everything together, so don’t be shy about choosing one you love.

Is it possible to make Chicken Parmesan Bake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the Italian-style breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety. There are plenty of delicious options in most grocery stores—everything else is naturally gluten-free.

Can I assemble the dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can prep the Chicken Parmesan Bake right up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for several hours (or overnight). When you’re ready, bake as directed, adding a couple extra minutes if going straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Every homemade dinner should feel this satisfying—cheesy, saucy, just a little bit crispy, and made with love. I hope you’ll make this Chicken Parmesan Bake part of your regular dinner rotation and share it with the people you love most. It’s one of those dishes that never fails to bring smiles to the table!

Chicken Parmesan Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A delicious and easy-to-make Chicken Parmesan Bake that combines tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Parmesan Bake:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For Assembly:

2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare breadcrumb mixture: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Coat chicken: Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then coat both sides with the breadcrumb mixture.
Assemble: Place the coated chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until chicken is cooked and cheese is bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.