Easy 5-Ingredient Baked Chicken Parmesan
If you love classic Chicken Parmesan but don’t want the mess of breading and frying, this easy baked chicken Parmesan recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this oven-baked version delivers all the rich Italian-American flavor you crave tender chicken breasts, savory marinara sauce, and bubbly melted cheese without the extra steps.
This healthy baked chicken Parmesan skips frying altogether, making it lighter than the traditional version while still tasting indulgent. It’s a meal you won’t get tired of and one your family will happily ask for again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Parmesan:
Quick & Easy Dinner Just 5 ingredients and minimal prep
Healthier Than Traditional Chicken Parmesan No breading or frying
Perfect for Busy Weeknights Ready in about 30 minutes
Family-Friendly Comfort Food Classic flavors everyone loves
Versatile Serving Options Pair with pasta, salad, or roasted veggies
Ingredients:
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3–4 breasts)
1½ cups jarred marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for greasing
Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste (optional)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Slice the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry and slice horizontally into thin cutlets (about ½ inch thick) for quick, even cooking.
Season: Arrange chicken in a single layer in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season lightly with salt and black pepper, if desired.
Add marinara: Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated to keep it moist while baking.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella over the sauce, then finish with grated Parmesan for classic chicken Parmesan flavor.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional broil: For a golden, lightly blistered top, broil for 1–3 minutes, watching closely.
Rest & serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas:
Serve over spaghetti or penne for a classic chicken Parmesan dinner
Pair with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal
Add roasted broccoli, zucchini, or green beans for balance
Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the sauce
Variations & Tips:
Sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs on top for a lightly crispy finish
Add dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme) for extra flavor
Use boneless chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option
Add sliced zucchini or spinach to make it more vegetable-forward
Choose spicy marinara or add red pepper flakes for heat
