Go Back
chicken-parmesan-recipe--best-ever--_feature

Ultimate Parmesan Crusted Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This recipe creates restaurant-quality Parmesan crusted chicken parmesan with perfectly crispy chicken tenders coated in a golden Parmesan crust, baked for a healthier twist. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it incorporates clean eating principles and can be customized with vegetable sides.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Bell peppers and zucchini (optional for veggie side)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and oregano in the third.
  2. Working with one tender at a time, dredge in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
  3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange coated chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
  4. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken tender and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot with your choice of vegetables or pasta. For the veggie side, roast sliced bell peppers and zucchini alongside the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and texture. For extra spicy kick, add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes to breading mixture. To serve 10 people: double the recipe and use two baking sheets. For clean eating version: use whole wheat breadcrumbs and organic ingredients. Make-ahead tip: bread the chicken and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking.