When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the beloved Baked Chicken Parmesan. This classic Italian-American recipe brings together tender chicken, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheese, all covered in a crunchy breadcrumb crust. It’s a meal that evokes warmth and satisfaction, perfect for family dinners, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself to something special. It’s not just the taste that makes this dish so appealing; it’s also the ease with which you can prepare it! You might find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again.
Why We Love This Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
There are many reasons to love baked chicken parmesan. Firstly, it’s a healthier alternative to the traditional fried version. By baking the chicken rather than frying it, you reduce the amount of oil and fat while preserving all the delicious flavor. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly simple to follow, making it accessible for cooks of all levels—from beginners to seasoned chefs. It combines classic flavors that everyone in your household will enjoy, plus it’s an easy way to sneak in some whole grains and lean protein. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for a gathering, baked chicken parmesan fits the bill perfectly!
Ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan
To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces each)
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large egg whites
- 4 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup high-quality jarred tomato sauce
- Fresh basil (thinly sliced or chopped)
- Optional: Prepared whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for serving
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation of this delightful dish. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious baked chicken parmesan that will please your taste buds:
Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While your oven is heating, lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Prep the Chicken: Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slice them in half lengthwise. This should give you four pieces of chicken, each about the same size. To ensure even cooking, pound each piece to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch. This step is crucial for making sure the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Breading the Chicken: In a wide, shallow bowl, mix together the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until they are lightly foamy.
Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken, dip it in the egg whites, and allow any excess to drip off. Next, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the crumbs stick well. Place the breaded chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet and give the tops a light spray of cooking spray to assist in achieving a crispy crust.
Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll want to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 160°F. The breadcrumbs should turn a lovely golden brown during this time.
Add Sauce and Cheese: Once the chicken is cooked through, take it out of the oven. Spoon 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each piece, followed by adding a slice of mozzarella cheese or a portion of grated mozzarella. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted to perfection.
Garnish and Enjoy: Once the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, remove the chicken from the oven. Sprinkle fresh basil on top for added flavor and a burst of color. Your baked chicken parmesan is ready to serve!
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan
Serving baked chicken parmesan is a straightforward affair, yet there are many delightful ways to enjoy this dish. You can simply plate the chicken alongside a generous helping of fresh spaghetti or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a light and nutritious meal. Drizzle extra tomato sauce over the chicken for added flavor.
For an even more wholesome approach, consider serving the chicken alongside a colorful side salad or steamed vegetables, which not only complements the meal but also adds a healthful touch. And don’t forget—fresh basil makes for a great garnish, not just for flavor but also for visual appeal!
Expert Tips: Baked Chicken Parmesan
Elevating your baked chicken parmesan can be as simple as following a few expert tips:
Pound Evenly: Ensure that the chicken is pounded to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly. If the chicken is too thick in parts, it may result in uneven cooking and some pieces being dry.
Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality cheese and tomato sauce can significantly enhance the taste of your dish. Freshly grated cheese melts better and offers a richer flavor than pre-packaged options.
Don’t Skip the Spray: A light spray of oil on top of the breadcrumbs before baking helps them develop that irresistible crispy texture.
Rest before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking will help retain juices and flavor, making each bite more tender.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider topping your baked chicken parmesan with sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or olives for added flavor and complexity.
How to Store Baked Chicken Parmesan
If you find yourself with leftovers, there’s no need to worry—it stores wonderfully! To keep your baked chicken parmesan fresh:
Cool Down: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing.
Airtight Container: Place the leftover chicken in an airtight container. Make sure to separate the chicken and the sauce if possible; this will keep the breadcrumbs from getting soggy.
Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through and the cheese is bubbling again.
Variations of Baked Chicken Parmesan
Experimenting with baked chicken parmesan can be a fun way to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Here are some mouth-watering variations to consider:
Spicy Kick: For those who like a bit of spice, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. This added heat can elevate the dish and cater to those who enjoy a little adventure in flavor.
Herbaceous Flavor: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the breadcrumb mixture. Fresh herbs can also be added to the sauce or as a garnish to create a fresher taste.
Cheese Blend: Instead of just mozzarella, try using a blend of cheeses like provolone or gouda for a richer flavor profile. Combining different cheeses can add depth and make every bite a different experience.
Veggie-Loaded: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Incorporate finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the breadcrumb mixture. This not only adds nutrition but also amps up the flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: If you or your guests need a gluten-free alternative, swap the breadcrumbs for ground almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You’ll still achieve that satisfying crunch without the gluten.
FAQ
What makes Baked Chicken Parmesan healthier than the classic version?
Baked chicken parmesan is healthier primarily because it is oven-baked rather than fried. This significantly reduces the amount of oil used in its preparation, creating a dish that is lower in calories and fat while still retaining rich flavor.
How can I customize my Baked Chicken Parmesan?
You can customize your baked chicken parmesan by adding spices, using different cheeses, or incorporating vegetables into the breadcrumb mixture. Personalizing the dish allows you to cater it to your preferences and dietary considerations.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but ensure they are fully thawed before following the recipe. If you start with frozen chicken, it may alter cooking times or result in uneven cooking.
What is the best way to reheat leftover Baked Chicken Parmesan?
The best way to reheat leftover baked chicken parmesan is to place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the breadcrumbs while ensuring the chicken and cheese heat evenly.
What should I serve with Baked Chicken Parmesan?
Baked chicken parmesan pairs wonderfully with whole wheat spaghetti, zucchini noodles, or a light side salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a more traditional Italian-inspired dinner.
Baked Chicken Parmesan
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Mixing Bowls
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 2 large egg whites
- 4 oz part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup high-quality jarred tomato sauce
- Fresh basil (thinly sliced or chopped)
- Optional: Prepared whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four pieces and pound them to 1/2 inch thickness.
- In a bowl, mix Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, whole wheat Panko, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until lightly foamy.
- Dip each chicken piece in egg whites, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and spoon 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce on each piece; top with mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve with spaghetti or zucchini noodles if desired.
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