One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken Parmesan is a beloved comfort food for many, combining tender chicken, savory marinara sauce, and a cheesy, crispy crust. But what if we told you that you could enjoy all of this in less time, with minimal cleanup? Enter One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan – a streamlined version of the classic dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or a stress-free weekend dinner. In this post, we’ll walk you through every step of creating this delicious meal, from gathering your ingredients to enjoying the perfect bite.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

If you're a fan of Chicken Parmesan, you'll be delighted by this simplified, one-pan version. Unlike traditional methods, which can involve frying chicken and multiple dishes, the One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan reduces prep time and mess. The chicken is baked in a single pan, absorbing the rich flavors of marinara sauce and cheese, resulting in a crispy, flavorful crust and a juicy, tender center. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

• Minimal Cleanup: All you need is one pan, so you won’t have to deal with a messy kitchen afterward.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in about 30 minutes.
• Healthy Option: Baking the chicken instead of frying it makes this version of Chicken Parmesan lighter, without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, with a side of roasted vegetables, or even on a fresh bed of greens.

Ingredients for One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

Before you start, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for your One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan. This dish calls for simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients that you likely already have on hand.

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray for greasing

For the Topping:

• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! The preparation of One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan is straightforward and relatively quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the chicken. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and quickly once it's in the oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

In three shallow bowls, set up a breading station:

• First bowl: Flour, salt, and pepper. Stir together.
• Second bowl: Beaten eggs.
• Third bowl: A mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dip it into the egg wash, and finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick, creating a crispy layer.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Lightly grease a baking sheet or a large oven-safe skillet with olive oil or cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken breasts on the pan, leaving space between each one. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the breading is golden brown.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the pan from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese has melted, remove the pan from the oven. Garnish your One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, a side of roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

• Pound the Chicken Breasts: For even cooking and a crispier coating, lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading.
• Use Fresh Marinara Sauce: If possible, use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher, more vibrant flavor. If you prefer store-bought, choose a high-quality brand without added sugar.
• Double the Breading: For an extra crispy crust, double-dip the chicken by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb process.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese. A mix of mozzarella and provolone adds a deliciously gooey texture, while Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor.

Variations of One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

While the traditional One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan is amazing on its own, you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for the breading, and make sure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Chicken Parmesan With a Twist: Add a few slices of prosciutto on top of the chicken before baking for an Italian-inspired twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for eggplant slices. Bread and bake the eggplant the same way you would the chicken for a hearty, vegetarian alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Add thin slices of zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the pan before baking the chicken for an easy, vegetable-packed side dish.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

The beauty of One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan is its versatility. Here are some serving ideas to complement the dish:

• With Pasta: A classic pairing with Chicken Parmesan is pasta. Serve over spaghetti, penne, or any of your favorite pasta shapes. The marinara sauce and melted cheese will cling beautifully to the noodles.
• With Salad: For a lighter option, serve the chicken with a simple arugula salad, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
• With Garlic Bread: For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair the dish with a side of crispy garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
• With Roasted Vegetables: If you prefer to keep things on the healthier side, roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots make a great accompaniment.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Best One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan

This One-Pan Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe combines the delicious flavors of a traditional Chicken Parmesan but with far less fuss. You can enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The simplicity of baking the chicken in one pan allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it a family favorite for years to come.

Whether you’re serving it over pasta, with a side of vegetables, or on its own, you’ll find that this dish checks all the boxes for a satisfying, easy-to-make meal.