Easy Chicken Parmesan for one with crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Quick Italian-style dinner, perfect with pasta or a fresh salad. Tips for tender chicken, perfectly melted cheese, and oven-baked perfection. Great for a simple, flavorful home-cooked meal.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons seasoned breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
⅛ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 (6-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breast
¼ cup marinara sauce
1 ounce mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Optional: cooked pasta for serving

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon of Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Melt the butter in a separate bowl. Dip the chicken into the butter, coating both sides evenly.
Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Place the chicken in a lightly greased 5×7-inch baking dish. Drizzle any remaining butter over the top.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°–155°F (65°–68°C).
Spoon the marinara sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate, garnish with parsley, and serve with pasta if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This single-serving Chicken Parmesan is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with melty mozzarella for a classic Italian flavor. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a solo dinner without leftovers.

Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken stays juicy and safe to eat.
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Lightly greasing the baking dish prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheesy flavor.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a mild kick.
For a lower-fat option, brush the chicken with olive oil instead of butter.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, bake the chicken first, then freeze individually. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of baking?
Yes, you can pan-fry the breaded chicken until golden, then top with sauce and cheese, and cover until the cheese melts.

Serving

Serve this Chicken Parmesan with cooked pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Suggestions

Pair with garlic bread for a comforting Italian dinner.
Drizzle with extra marinara sauce or a little balsamic glaze for added flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation.