Baked Chicken Thigh Parmigiana
Tender boneless chicken thighs coated in a Parmesan-seasoned breadcrumb crust, baked until golden and crispy, then smothered in a rich homemade tomato sauce and bubbling melted mozzarella. This comforting baked parmigiana is easier than you think and makes a satisfying weeknight dinner the whole family will love.
🛒 Ingredients
6 servings
- 6 boneless chicken thighs, skin-on for extra flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
- 1 onion, grated
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 can ready-made tomato sauce (parmigiana or marinara)
- 1 chicken stock cube
- ½ cup water
- Mozzarella slices for topping
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Directions
- 1
Lay the boneless chicken thighs flat on a large plate. Season with crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and fresh basil leaves.
- 2
Dip each thigh in beaten egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
- 3
Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the breaded thighs in a single layer. Bake at 200-220°C (400-425°F) for 30 to 50 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- 4
Meanwhile, sauté the grated onion and garlic in olive oil. Add the diced tomatoes and stock cube and simmer for a few minutes.
- 5
Stir in the tomato sauce and water. Simmer on low heat, adjusting acidity with a pinch of sugar if needed, then set aside.
- 6
Once the chicken is cooked, drain any excess juices from the dish. Top each thigh with mozzarella slices and spoon the tomato sauce generously over the top.
- 7
Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Garnish with fresh basil sprigs and serve hot.
💡 Chef's Tip
For an extra crispy crust, refrigerate the breaded thighs for 15 minutes before baking. The tomato sauce can be made a day ahead for deeper flavor.
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