Baked Chicken Parmesan with Melty Cheese
Introduction
This Baked Chicken Parmesan with Melty Cheese delivers everything you love about classic chicken parm—crispy coating, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese—without deep frying. Oven-baking keeps the chicken juicy inside while the seasoned breadcrumb crust turns golden and crunchy. Finished with bubbling mozzarella and savory Parmesan, this comforting Italian-style dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even meal prep. Serve it with pasta, salad, or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25–30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon milk or water
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
For Topping
1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley (optional)
Preparation
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Bread the Chicken (10 minutes)
Set up three bowls:
Bowl 1: flour
Bowl 2: eggs + milk (whisked)
Bowl 3: breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper
Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat well with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake Until Crispy (15–18 minutes)
Place chicken in the prepared dish.
Drizzle or brush with olive oil or melted butter.
Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway, until lightly golden.
Add Sauce & Cheese (10–12 minutes)
Remove chicken from oven.
Spoon marinara sauce over each piece.
Top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
Return to oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Rest & Serve (3 minutes)
Let chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Pro Tips
For extra crispiness, place chicken on a wire rack over the baking tray.
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end if you want extra bubbly cheese—watch closely!
Swap marinara for spicy arrabbiata or roasted tomato sauce for variation.
Serving Suggestions
Over spaghetti or penne pasta
With garlic bread and Caesar salad
In a toasted sandwich roll for a chicken parm sub
Final Thoughts
This Baked Chicken Parmesan with Melty Cheese is comfort food made lighter—crispy, juicy, and irresistibly cheesy without the mess of frying. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights and special enough for guests.