Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a lighter take on the classic comfort food everyone loves. Crispy oven-baked chicken cutlets are topped with flavorful marinara and melty mozzarella—without deep frying or heavy breading. This easy, wholesome chicken parmesan recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and anyone looking for a healthier Italian-inspired meal that still feels indulgent.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese shredded or sliced
- Seasonings & Flavor Base
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce low sugar or homemade
- Pantry Staples
- Olive oil spray
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil spray.
- Season chicken cutlets lightly with salt and pepper.
- Dip each cutlet into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb, parmesan, and seasoning mixture.
- Place chicken on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet.
- Top with mozzarella and a light sprinkle of parmesan.
- Return to oven and bake 5–7 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired for extra browning.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Thin cutlets cook more evenly and stay juicy.
- Always add sauce and cheese at the end to keep the coating crisp.
- An air fryer can also be used for reheating to restore crunch.