Some dinners just make you smile before you even take the first bite. My Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is one of those comforting meals that brings all the cozy, classic Italian flavors you crave—without the heaviness of frying. Juicy chicken cutlets coated in whole wheat breadcrumbs, layered with bright marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, make this baked version every bit as satisfying as the restaurant favorite. It’s easy, lighter, and absolutely delicious. This one’s worth pinning for your next weeknight dinner!
Why You’ll Love It
- 🍅 Lighter comfort food: All the cheesy, crispy flavor of classic chicken parm—without frying.
- 🔥 Oven-baked and easy: Simple steps, no splattering oil, and ready in under an hour.
- 🍗 Juicy chicken cutlets: Tender, golden, and perfectly seasoned for that crave-worthy bite.
- 🧀 Wholesome ingredients: Made with whole wheat breadcrumbs, fresh mozzarella, and real marinara.
- 💚 Family-approved: Loved by kids and adults alike—pairs perfectly with pasta or a crisp salad.
- 🥗 Great meal prep option: Bake once, enjoy leftovers for a quick protein-packed lunch!
Time Needed
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 large)
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- 3 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1½ cups marinara sauce (homemade or no-sugar-added jarred)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the chicken Butterfly and pound the chicken breasts until about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and a tender texture. You should end up with 6 cutlets.
- Set up your breading station In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, pepper, basil, and parsley. This assembly line keeps things neat and efficient.
- Bread the chicken Coat each cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture. Lay on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake until golden Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Flip the cutlets and bake another 15 minutes until crisp and golden.
- Add sauce and cheese Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet and top with mozzarella. Broil for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.
- Serve & enjoy Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately. Try it with spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Variations to Try
- Low-Carb Option: Use almond flour and crushed pork-free crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a celiac-friendly version.
- Caprese Style: Add sliced tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or use arrabbiata sauce for a fiery twist.
Tips from Chef Emma
- Always pound your chicken evenly—it makes all the difference in texture.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
- Bake on parchment or a wire rack for ultimate crispiness.
- Don’t skip the broil—it gives that classic, bubbly, cheesy finish!
- Serve immediately for the crispiest crust.
Nutrition Info per Serving
- Serving Size: 8 oz chicken with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 572
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sugars: 6g
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 60g
- Sodium: 676mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Can I bake this chicken parmesan ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep and bread the cutlets a day ahead. Bake right before serving for the crispiest crust. - Q: Should I bake chicken parmesan covered or uncovered?
A: Always bake it uncovered so the coating stays crisp and the cheese melts perfectly. - Q: What can I serve with chicken parmesan?
A: Spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or a green salad all make great pairings. Try zucchini noodles for a lighter option! - Q: Can I freeze chicken parmesan?
A: This recipe is best fresh. Freezing may make the coating soggy, but leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is proof that comfort food can be both wholesome and indulgent. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and fresh basil finish, it’s a dinner that feels like a warm Italian hug—without the guilt. Save this recipe to your healthy dinner board so you’ll have it ready for busy weeknights or cozy weekends in!
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Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan – Crispy, Cheesy & Comforting Italian Dinner
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a crispy, cheesy, oven-baked twist on the Italian classic. Juicy chicken cutlets coated in whole wheat breadcrumbs, topped with marinara and mozzarella, and baked until golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole wheat bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Butterfly and pound chicken breasts to ¼ inch thick.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Set up bowls for flour, whisked eggs, and breadcrumb mixture.
- Coat each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flip, and bake another 15 minutes.
- Top with marinara and mozzarella; broil 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
Best enjoyed fresh! For a crisp crust, bake uncovered and serve immediately. Great with pasta, salad, or zucchini noodles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 oz chicken with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 572
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 676mg
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 60g
Keywords: healthy chicken parmesan, baked chicken parm, light Italian dinner, crispy chicken cutlet, easy weeknight meal