Name: Healthy Chicken Parmesan: A Delightful Sheet Pan Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar preferred); 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish; Olive oil or cooking spray

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I make Healthy Chicken Parmesan as a simple, wholesome sheet pan dinner that’s packed with classic flavors but lighter and easier to prepare. Crispy baked chicken breasts topped with marinara and melted cheese all cook together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about this recipe is how it balances comfort food cravings with health-conscious choices. Baking instead of frying keeps the chicken tender and crispy without extra oil, and the sheet pan method means everything cooks evenly and quickly. It’s a delicious, satisfying meal that I feel good about serving.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko
• grated Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• garlic powder
• salt and pepper
• eggs, beaten
• marinara sauce (low-sugar preferred)
• shredded mozzarella cheese
• fresh basil or parsley (optional)
• olive oil or cooking spray

directions

I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper. I season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, I set up a breading station with one bowl of beaten eggs and another with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I dip each chicken breast into the eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. I place the breaded chicken on the sheet pan, spray lightly with olive oil or cooking spray, and bake for about 20 minutes. Next, I spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, returning the pan to the oven for another 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I finish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. Prep and cooking take approximately 35–40 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add sautéed mushrooms or spinach under the cheese for extra veggies. Using part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while keeping the cheesy goodness. For a gluten-free option, I use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in the oven to keep the breading crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and stay juicy.

How do I make the breading extra crispy?

I spray the breaded chicken lightly with oil before baking and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

I assemble the breaded chicken and refrigerate before baking when ready.

Can I freeze leftovers?

I freeze cooked chicken parmesan for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

What’s the best marinara sauce to use?

I prefer a low-sugar, high-quality marinara for better flavor and health benefits.

Conclusion

Healthy Chicken Parmesan is one of my favorite easy sheet pan dinners that combines classic Italian flavors with a lighter twist. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.