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Easy Chicken Parmesan Bake: Quick 20-Minute One-Skillet Recipe

This easy chicken parmesan bake is a quick weeknight dinner that eliminates traditional breading and frying while delivering all the cheesy, comforting flavors you crave. Perfect for busy families, this one-skillet wonder transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular meal ready in just 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish
  • Cooked pasta or bread for serving (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. The chicken doesn't need to be fully cooked through at this stage.
  3. Add Sauce and Cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over each piece, followed by a generous dusting of parmesan cheese.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the skillet to a preheated 400°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over pasta or with crusty bread.

Notes

Remove chicken from oven at 160°F as it continues cooking while resting. Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts of similar size for even cooking. Can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sauce for extra vegetables.