Are you ready to delight your taste buds with a tasty twist on a classic? This Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers all the flavor you crave but keeps it simple. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and with fresh ingredients like mozzarella and basil, dinner will be a hit! Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide that will make you the star of your kitchen.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
Seasoning and Extras
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Olive oil spray
Nutritional Information
Each serving of baked chicken parmesan has about 400 calories. It packs around 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 25 grams of carbs. This dish is filling and offers a good balance of nutrients. You can enjoy it as a hearty meal. For more detailed nutritional breakdowns, check the Full Recipe.
I love these ingredients because they work together so well. The chicken stays juicy and tender. The bread crumbs give a nice crunch. The cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all crave. Don’t forget to season well; it makes a big difference!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheat the Oven and Prep Baking Dish
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, grab your baking dish. Lightly spray it with olive oil. This helps the chicken not stick and gives it a nice golden color.
Prepare and Season the Chicken
Use a paper towel to pat the chicken breasts dry. This step is key to getting the seasonings to stick. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds great flavor to the chicken.
Breading Process
Set Up the Breading Station
Now, it’s time to create a breading station. You need three shallow dishes:
– In the first dish, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
– In the second dish, crack open 2 large eggs and whisk them well.
– In the third dish, mix 1 cup of Italian-seasoned bread crumbs with 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This mix gives the chicken extra taste.
Bread the Chicken Thoroughly
Take a seasoned chicken breast and dip it in the flour. Make sure to shake off the extra flour. Next, dip it in the eggs, letting the excess drip back into the bowl. Finally, coat it with the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.
Baking and Serving
Arrange in Baking Dish and Spray
Place the breaded chicken breasts in your baking dish in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
Bake the Chicken and Add Marinara Sauce
Put the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). When it’s done, take it out and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
Top with Cheese and Final Bake
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara. Add the rest of the grated Parmesan on top. This combo will melt beautifully.
Rest and Garnish
Put the dish back in the oven for 10-15 minutes. Wait until the cheese is melted and bubbly. After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh basil for a pop of color.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above!
Tips & Tricks
Making Flavorful Adjustments
To boost flavor, try adding herbs like oregano and thyme. These herbs add depth and freshness. You can also mix in some fresh parsley for a bright touch. Different cheeses can change the taste too. Use provolone for a sharper bite or ricotta for creaminess. Experimenting with cheese keeps the dish exciting.
Cooking Techniques
To keep your chicken moist, start by patting it dry. This helps the seasoning stick. Also, avoid overbaking. Check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should be 165°F (75°C). For a crispy crust, use olive oil spray. This helps the breading crisp up without excess grease. Bake until golden for the best crunch.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Pair your baked chicken parmesan with sides that complement its flavors. A simple arugula salad adds a nice touch. Serve it on a bed of sautéed spinach for vibrancy. For plating, drizzle extra marinara sauce around the chicken. Sprinkle fresh basil on top for color and aroma. This makes the dish look as great as it tastes! For the full recipe, check the section above.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make baked chicken parmesan even healthier with simple swaps.
– Whole wheat bread crumbs: These add fiber and nutrients. They also keep the dish crunchy.
– Turkey or plant-based options: Turkey is leaner than chicken. Plant-based options like tofu or tempeh can also work well. They absorb flavors nicely.
Different Cooking Methods
You have options for how you cook this dish.
– Air frying vs. baking: Air frying gives you a crispy texture with less oil. It cooks faster too. Baking is more traditional and allows for a juicy chicken.
– Grilling for a lighter option: Grilling adds a smoky flavor. It also reduces the fat content. Just season your chicken well before grilling.
Flavor Profile Modifications
You can switch up the flavors for a new twist.
– Adding different sauces: Try using pesto or alfredo instead of marinara. They bring unique tastes to the dish.
– Incorporating vegetables for nutrition: Mix in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. They add color and nutrients. Plus, the veggies pair well with the cheese and sauce.
Explore these variations to make baked chicken parmesan truly your own. For a complete guide, check the Full Recipe to see how these changes fit in!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover baked chicken parmesan, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it moist and tasty. You can refrigerate it for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze the dish, first wait for it to cool. Cut it into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. This helps keep out air. Baked chicken parmesan can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. This helps it heat evenly and stay crispy. You can also use a microwave, but the oven gives better results.
Meal Prep Ideas
This dish is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time for busy weeks. Just freeze portions after baking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat and enjoy!
Serve it with a side of pasta or a fresh salad. This adds color and nutrition to your meal. You can also drizzle more marinara sauce on top for extra flavor.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long does baked chicken parmesan take to cook?
Baked chicken parmesan takes about 50 minutes in total. This includes 15 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for baking. You want to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F inside.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free bread crumbs. These swaps work well and keep the dish tasty.
What should I serve with baked chicken parmesan?
Serve it with a simple salad or pasta. Garlic bread also makes a great side. You can also add sautéed veggies for extra flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
You can use pesto or Alfredo sauce instead of marinara. Both add their unique flavors and make the dish special.
Alternatives for chicken breasts?
You can use chicken thighs for more flavor. You can also try turkey cutlets or even eggplant for a plant-based option.
Cooking and Storage Queries
How to tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F. The juices should also run clear.
Can I store leftovers? How long do they last?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container. They last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
In this post, I covered how to make baked chicken Parmesan from start to finish. We explored the needed ingredients, the step-by-step cooking process, and tips for serving. I shared ways to adjust flavors, explore variations, and properly store your dish.
You can now create a delicious meal that pleases many. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and share your tasty results!
