Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan (Printable Version)

Crispy breaded chicken, melted mozzarella, and rich marinara create a cheesy Italian-inspired classic.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken and Coating

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound total)
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 cup panko bread crumbs
05 - 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Toppings

10 - 1 cup marinara sauce
11 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - 2 tablespoons minced parsley (optional, for garnish)

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Line a baking sheet with foil and brush with olive oil. Adjust oven rack to the second position from the top and preheat oven to 400°F.
02 - Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create two even pieces. Place chicken in a gallon-sized zip-top bag in a single layer, seal, and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
03 - Remove chicken pieces from the bag and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
04 - Mix panko bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a shallow dish. In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the egg until smooth.
05 - Dip each chicken piece first into the whisked egg, then dredge in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating. Arrange coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet.
06 - Transfer baking sheet to preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
07 - Flip each chicken piece. Spoon about 1/4 cup marinara sauce over each and top evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
08 - Switch oven to broil setting. Return baking sheet to the oven and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are golden and crisp.
09 - Remove pan from oven. Sprinkle with minced parsley if desired, and serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Ensure even thickness in chicken pieces for consistent cooking and a juicy result.