This Crispy Cheesy Italian Chicken Bake is a simple oven-baked dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a creamy garlic-Parmesan mixture, topped with crunchy Italian-seasoned panko, and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is tender chicken on the inside with a crisp, cheesy crust on top—no frying required. It’s a comforting, family-friendly meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy home cooks who want a fast, reliable dinner
- Families looking for a kid-approved chicken recipe
- Beginner cooks who want impressive results without complicated steps
- Anyone craving crispy chicken without deep frying
Why It’s Great
- Oven-baked for less mess and healthier cooking
- Crispy topping with juicy, tender chicken underneath
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- Easy to customize with sauces, herbs, or lighter swaps
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken thighs)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-seasoned panko breadcrumbs
(or plain panko + 1 tsp Italian seasoning) - ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Optional for Serving:
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking dish or sheet pan
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper. - Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Place in the prepared baking dish. - Make the Creamy Topping
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, paprika, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella until smooth. - Coat the Chicken
Spread the mixture evenly over the top of each chicken piece. - Add the Crunch
Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the chicken. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray for extra crispiness. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden. - Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the chicken and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until melted and bubbly. - Serve
Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with warm marinara sauce if desired.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep the topping crispy
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months (crumb topping may soften slightly after thawing)
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs stay extra juicy and work beautifully in this recipe.
Is Greek yogurt a good substitute for mayo?
Absolutely. It lightens the dish while keeping it creamy and flavorful.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes—swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
What sides go well with this?
Pasta, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad all pair perfectly.
Conclusion
This Crispy Cheesy Italian Chicken Bake is proof that an easy recipe can still feel special. With its golden crunch, rich cheese flavor, and tender chicken, it’s a dish you’ll come back to again and again. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite.
