Description
A crispy, gluten-free baked chicken parmesan that uses panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese for a shatteringly crisp coating without deep frying. This family-friendly meal is ready in under 35 minutes and is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for nut-free)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce (certified gluten-free)
- 1 1/2 cups low-moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Pound chicken breasts to 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour and garlic powder; Bowl 2 with whisked eggs, salt, and pepper; Bowl 3 with gluten-free panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and salt.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then press firmly into the panko mixture to coat.
- Place breaded chicken on the baking sheet. Drizzle or spray tops with olive oil to help browning.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and coating is golden.
- While chicken bakes, heat marinara sauce in a small saucepan.
- Remove chicken from oven, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of warm marinara over each breast, and top with shredded mozzarella.
- Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients, especially panko and marinara sauce, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination. Use low-moisture mozzarella to prevent sogginess. Do not skip the olive oil spray as it helps the gluten-free breadcrumbs brown. Chicken thighs can be substituted with a slightly longer baking time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast wit
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 40
Keywords: gluten-free chicken parmesan, baked chicken parmesan, crispy panko chicken, easy weeknight dinner, gluten-free Italian, family-friendly recipes