Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A comforting baked dish with crispy chicken, melted cheese, and a fresh tomato basil sauce. This italian-american-inspired chicken ready in about 55 minutes blends (6 oz each) chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, (grated) parmesan cheese into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 560 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves 4 Italian-American cuisine 560 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil.
  2. Step 2: Dredge 4 chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  3. Step 3: In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce and 1/4 cup chopped parsley. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  4. Step 4: Top baked chicken with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve with the tomato basil sauce spooned over the top.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (20 min prep + 35 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Herb-Crusted Chicken Parmesan with Tomato Basil Sauce?

Italian-American chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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