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As a busy parent, finding tasty, healthy meals for the family can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy baked chicken parmesan recipe. It’s a classic Italian-American dish that’s great for a cozy dinner at home. It has crispy chicken, warm marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, making it a healthier take on chicken parmesan.
This recipe stands out because it’s easy and flexible. With just a few ingredients and 45 minutes of prep, you can make a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, and it’s sure to be a hit with your family.
The Perfect Italian-American Comfort Food Classic
Chicken Parmesan is a favorite Italian-American dish loved by many. This version bakes the chicken, making it healthier without losing the taste that makes parmesan crusted chicken and chicken parmesan casserole so good.
Origins of Chicken Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan, a traditional Italian dish, was the foundation of the meal. Served with tomato sauce and cheese, it has slices of breaded and fried eggplant. Our beloved chicken parmesan was born out of the rapid rise in popularity of chicken.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This chicken parmesan recipe is simple and quick. It’s ready in under 35 minutes, perfect for any day. The crispy chicken, warm marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese make it both comforting and delicious.
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Chicken Parmesan
To make a tasty cheesy baked chicken or parmesan chicken bake, you need the right ingredients. At the core of this dish are boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They are the base where all the flavors come together.
You’ll also need kosher salt, black pepper, eggs, and a mix of breadcrumbs. Panko and Italian-style breadcrumbs are crucial for a crispy coating. Don’t forget freshly grated Parmesan cheese for flavor. Cooking spray, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese round out the dish.
Choosing high-quality ingredients like Rao’s marinara sauce and fresh Parmesan is key. This focus on quality will make your cheesy baked chicken or parmesan chicken bake taste amazing and authentic.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 3, cut in half horizontally to make 6 breast halves |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Italian-style breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Freshly grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Cooking spray | As needed |
| Marinara sauce | 24 ounces |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil leaves | For garnish |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the perfect baked chicken parmesan recipe, you need some key tools. First, a strong meat mallet is essential for pounding chicken breasts evenly. This ensures they cook well. You’ll also need mixing bowls for the egg wash and breadcrumb mix.
Remember to have plastic wrap ready to cover the chicken while you pound it. For baking, use rimmed baking sheets covered with parchment paper or a silicone mat. A bit of cooking spray helps the chicken get crispy. Lastly, an instant-read thermometer is crucial to check if the easy chicken parmesan is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
Preparation Essentials
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooking spray
- Instant-read thermometer
Baking Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheets
- Oven
- Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a tasty and crispy baked chicken parmesan at home.
Preparing the Chicken Breasts
The first step in making chicken parmesan or chicken breasts topped with parmesan is to get the breasts ready. To begin, use paper towels to gently pat the chicken breasts dry. Because of this, the breading clings to the meat more firmly. After that, set the chicken between two sheets of plastic and pound it until it’s half an inch thick.
This step is key. It ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.
After pounding, sprinkle black pepper and kosher salt on both sides. This adds flavor and helps create a tasty crust on the chicken.
By properly preparing the chicken, you’re on your way to a fantastic parmesan crusted chicken or chicken parmesan bake. The even thickness and seasoning lead to a perfectly cooked, tender, and flavorful chicken. It will surely impress your guests.
Perfect Breading Technique for Crispy Coating
To get that crispy, golden-brown coating on your parmesan chicken bake, you need a careful breading process. Let’s explore the steps to make the perfect breading for your cheesy baked chicken.
Creating the Egg Wash
Start by whisking two eggs in a shallow bowl. The egg wash helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken breasts. If the egg mixture gets too low, add a tablespoon or two of water to it.
Breadcrumb Mixture Tips
- In a separate bowl, mix ⅔ cup of panko breadcrumbs with ⅓ cup of Italian-style breadcrumbs. This mix of textures and flavors will give you a crispy crust.
- Add ¼ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. The Parmesan adds a cheesy layer to the coating.
- For more flavor, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, chives, or rosemary.
To get the crispiest coating, try double-coating the chicken. Dip it in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture twice. This will give you a crunchy exterior that matches the juicy chicken inside.
Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Get ready to enjoy the classic Italian-American comfort food with this easy baked chicken parmesan recipe. It features tender chicken breasts coated in crispy breading, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. All of this is baked to perfection in your oven.
To start, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly coat the breaded chicken breasts with cooking spray and place them on a baking sheet. Bake the chicken for about 15 minutes, until it’s cooked through and the breading is golden brown.
While the chicken bakes, prepare the marinara sauce and cheese topping on a separate baking sheet. Bake the sauce and cheese for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Then, combine the baked chicken with the hot marinara sauce and cheese mixture. Return the dish to the oven for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors mix.
This baked chicken parmesan recipe takes about 25-30 minutes to cook. It’s a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish. Serve it with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 pound (approx. 2 breasts) |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1/3 cup |
| Italian breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 2/3 cup |
| Marinara sauce | 24-ounce jar |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Fresh parsley (for garnish) | As needed |
Marinara and Cheese Selection Guide
Making the perfect chicken parmesan casserole or cheesy baked chicken starts with choosing the right marinara sauce and cheese. For that classic Italian-American taste, pick a top-notch marinara and mix mozzarella with Parmesan cheese.
Best Cheese Combinations
The secret to a delicious chicken parmesan casserole is in the cheese. Use shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture. Mozzarella makes it stringy and melty, while Parmesan adds a savory, nutty flavor.
Sauce Recommendations
For marinara sauce, choose a quality store-bought like Rao’s for ease and flavor. Or, make your own with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a true taste. Let the sauce simmer to bring out its rich flavor, which will match the crispy, cheesy baked chicken perfectly.
By picking the right marinara and cheese, you can make your chicken parmesan casserole even better. The mix of gooey mozzarella, savory Parmesan, and rich tomato sauce is a comfort food classic.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making the baked chicken parmesan recipe is easy and results in crispy, tasty chicken. Follow this guide to make your parmesan chicken bake a hit:
- First, heat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Arrange the chicken breasts that have been breaded on a baking sheet. Place in the oven and cook for fifteen minutes. Once cooked, the internal temperature of the chicken should be 165°F, or 74°C.
- While the chicken bakes, get your marinara sauce and grated cheese ready on another baking sheet. Melt and bubble the cheese in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
- To get a crispy, browned cheese topping, broil the marinara and cheese for 1 minute. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Once the chicken is done, mix it with the marinara sauce and cheese. Your baked chicken parmesan recipe is ready to enjoy!
This parmesan chicken bake takes about 25 minutes to bake. It ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and golden.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 1 lb (454g) |
| Marinara Sauce | 24 oz (680g) |
| Mozzarella Cheese | 2 cups (226g) |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup (50g) |
| Fresh Parsley (for garnish) | 1/4 cup (10g) |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When serving your easy chicken parmesan, you have many tasty choices. A classic choice is to serve it with hot pasta like spaghetti or penne. For a healthier option, try whole wheat pasta or vegetable noodles like zucchini spirals.
To make your chicken parmesan casserole look and taste better, add fresh parsley on top. A simple side salad or steamed veggies can also add a nice touch.
Recommended Side Dishes:
- Pasta con Aglio e Olio (Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil)
- Caprese Salad (Fresh Mozzarella, Tomatoes, and Basil)
- Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Lemon
- Pesto Pasta
- Garlic Roasted Potatoes
These side dishes not only match the flavors of easy chicken parmesan but also add variety. Whether you prefer a classic Italian dish or something lighter, there are many great choices.
Time-Saving Tips and Make-Ahead Options
Making a classic healthy chicken parmesan doesn’t have to take a lot of time. With a few smart tips, you can make this easy chicken parmesan recipe in no time, perfect for a weeknight.
Storage Guidelines
Leftovers of this baked chicken parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes before refrigerating to keep the best texture.
Reheating Methods
When reheating, the oven is the best way to keep the healthy chicken parmesan crispy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes until it’s hot. You can also use the microwave for a quicker option, but it might not be as crispy.
For extra convenience, prepare the easy chicken parmesan ahead. Make the breadcrumb mixture early and store it in an airtight container. Then, just dredge the chicken in the breadcrumbs and bake as usual.
Using these tips and make-ahead strategies, you can enjoy this classic Italian-American dish with ease on busy weeknights.
Healthy Adaptations and Variations
For a healthier twist on chicken Parmesan, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour. This change cuts down on carbs and calories but keeps the crispy texture. You can also use low-fat mozzarella and more Parmesan for a richer taste.
Want to reduce sodium and sugar? Make your own tomato sauce. This way, you can control the flavors and avoid preservatives and sweeteners found in store-bought sauces. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers or almond meal instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Baking the chicken Parmesan is a smart move to lower calories and fat. It keeps the crispy coating without the guilt. This healthier version of the dish is perfect for enjoying without worrying about your diet.