Chicken Parmesan

Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey to create the perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan. This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, combining crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Follow our step-by-step guide to achieve a mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your taste buds singing.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Additional Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Author: Siddhanath Metkari

How to Make Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Baked chicken Parmesan has this quirky charm – it looks all fancy, but truth be told, it’s one of the simplest baked chicken recipes in the playbook (think Chicken Cacciatore simplicity).

And you know what? Ever since I mastered my own take, a crispy, oven-baked chicken Parmesan with a delightful panko crust, it’s become my absolute favorite. It’s a delightful balance of flavors – not too much, just right – and the best part? It’s baked, not fried.

That panko breadcrumb crust? Oh, it’s pure magic. Crispy in all the right ways, without feeling like you’re biting into a thick wall of breading. Perfection, right?

Tools for this recipe:

1. Garlic Press
2. Wire whisk
3. a big pot
4. Sharp knife
5. bowl
6. skillet
7. kitchen tongs
8. oven
9. 9×13 inch baking dish.
10. Pie Plate
11. Baking Sheets

Recipe Video:

Ingredients

To begin this gastronomic adventure, gather the following ingredients:

1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 1 cup breadcrumbs
3. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4. 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
5. 2 cups marinara sauce
6. 2 large eggs
7. 1 cup all-purpose flour
8. 1 teaspoon dried oregano
9. 1 teaspoon dried basil
10. Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step cooking instruction

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Baked Chicken Parmesan cooks evenly and attains that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and season them with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, creating an egg wash. Dredge the chicken breasts in flour, dip them in the egg wash, and then coat them generously with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and dried basil.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Lay the chicken breasts, all beautifully coated, onto a baking sheet that’s been lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy. Make sure the inside of the chicken hits a cozy 165°F (74°C) – that’s the sweet spot for perfection!

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top, creating a luscious, melty layer that will elevate the flavors.

Step 5: Return to the Oven

Place the baking sheet back in the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Keep an attentive watch to ensure those delicious bites don’t turn into accidental crisps – we’re aiming for golden, not burnt!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Take the Baked Chicken Parmesan out of the oven and let it chill for a bit. Sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top – not just a treat for your taste buds, but a feast for the eyes too! Serve the dish over a bed of your favorite pasta or with a side of crusty garlic bread.

🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 chicken breast with sauce & cheese):

Values may vary slightly depending on ingredients used (homemade vs. store-bought sauce, full-fat cheese, etc.)

✅ 10 Health Benefits of Chicken Parmesan:

1. High-Quality Protein
   Chicken breast provides lean, complete protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
2. Bone Strength
   Parmesan and mozzarella offer calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth.
3. Boosts Metabolism
   The B vitamins in chicken help convert food into energy and support metabolic health.
4. Improves Satiety
   A protein-rich dish like this helps you feel full longer, curbing unnecessary snacking.
5. Rich in Lycopene
   Marinara sauce made from tomatoes is packed with lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
6. Immune Support
   Garlic, often included in the sauce or seasoning, offers natural antimicrobial properties.
7. Heart Health (with smart swaps)
   Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and bake instead of fry to make it heart-friendlier.
8. Iron-Rich
   Chicken and tomato sauce provide iron, crucial for healthy blood and energy levels.
9. Balanced Meal Base
   Pair it with whole grain pasta or a side of roasted veggies to create a well-rounded plate.
10. Kid-Friendly Nutrition
    Great way to introduce picky eaters to lean protein and tomato-based sauces with familiar flavors.

🧊 Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator:
  Store leftover Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer:
  Cool completely, wrap individually or layer with parchment in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Tip: Freeze without pasta for best texture. Reheat sauce and pasta fresh.

🔁 Reheat & Reuse Instructions:

Reheat:

• Oven (Best Method):
  Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15–20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave:
  Place on a plate, cover with a microwave-safe lid, and reheat on medium for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of sauce to avoid drying.
• Air Fryer:
  Heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for a crispy finish.

Reuse Ideas:

1. Chicken Parm Sandwich:
   Slice and stuff into a crusty baguette with fresh basil and extra sauce.
2. Chicken Parmesan Wrap:
   Roll into a tortilla with arugula, shredded cheese, and roasted peppers for a quick lunch.
3. Parmesan Chicken Bowl:
   Serve over quinoa or farro with steamed broccoli or roasted veggies.
4. Pasta Bake Remix:
   Chop leftovers, toss with cooked pasta and extra marinara, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers:
   Dice leftover chicken parm and use it to stuff hollowed-out peppers. Bake until tender and melted.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully mastered the art of making Baked Chicken Parmesan. This delectable dish is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or any occasion that calls for a hearty and satisfying meal.

FAQ’s

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