Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets (4 cutlets)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1–2 cups marinara sauce, plus more if desired
- 6–8 oz mozzarella cheese ball, sliced
- Fresh parsley and basil, for serving
Others
- Avocado oil or avocado oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for perfectly baked chicken.
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and generously spray or drizzle it with avocado oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Make the egg wash: Crack the eggs into a shallow dish and whisk them together thoroughly to create a smooth egg wash for coating the chicken.
- Prepare the breadcrumb mixture: In another shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet first into the egg wash, then press both sides firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a thorough coating. Use your fingers to gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for better adherence.
- Bake the chicken: Transfer the coated chicken cutlets onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Add sauce and cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each cutlet, then top with slices of mozzarella cheese evenly.
- Finish baking: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown cheese crust—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and basil over the chicken. Serve hot alongside your favorite pasta and extra marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
- For best results, pound chicken cutlets to an even thickness before coating to ensure uniform baking.
- If you prefer a lower fat option, use part-skim mozzarella cheese.
- Broiling cheese is optional but adds a nice golden brown color and enhances flavor.
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to add a bright, fresh flavor.
- Check chicken internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- Leftover chicken Parmesan stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat