Description
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthy, crispy, and flavorful dinner option that combines classic Italian flavors with a nutritious twist. Perfect for family meals and quick weeknight dinners, this baked chicken dish features tender chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked to perfection for a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of whole wheat bread crumbs or panko bread crumbs for extra crunch
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce, homemade or store-bought
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a shallow bowl, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into olive oil, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the breaded chicken in the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven, spoon marinara sauce over each piece, top with mozzarella, and sprinkle extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.
- Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot, optionally with pasta or a green salad.
Notes
- Use whole wheat bread crumbs for added fiber and a healthier crust.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For extra flavor, add crushed red pepper flakes or dried herbs to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead, refrigerate, and bake later for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce and cheese
- Calories: 350 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg