Baked Chicken Parmesan

Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan Delight 🍽️🧀🍗

1. Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite Italian chicken dish: Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan Delight. This crispy chicken parmesan recipe offers all the flavors of the classic Italian favorite but with a healthier twist thanks to baking instead of frying. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, this baked chicken parmesan will impress everyone with its crunchy crust, tender meat, and gooey cheese. Let’s dive into how you can create this delightful baked chicken parmesan at home!

2. Ingredients Needed for Chicken Parmesan

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup bread crumbs (panko or Italian seasoned)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound gently to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano for added flavor.

Breading the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast first into the eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra crispy texture, press the breading onto the chicken and ensure a thorough coating.

Baking the Chicken

Arrange the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking dish. Drizzle or spray lightly with olive oil to promote crispiness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.

Adding Sauce and Cheese

Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Serving Your Oven-Baked Chicken Parmesan

Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides like pasta, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. For a complete Italian experience, you can refer to our Creamy Garlic Shrimp Delight.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Parmesan

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave until warm or re-bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. If you want to keep the crispiness, reheat on a baking sheet rather than in a microwave.

5. Serving Suggestions for Chicken Parmesan

This baked chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with spaghetti or your favorite pasta, drizzled with extra marinara sauce. For a lighter meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. If you love cheesy dishes, explore our BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for more comfort food ideas.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Parmesan

Can I use chicken breasts with bone-in or skin-on?

For the best results and ease of eating, it’s recommended to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this baked chicken parmesan recipe. Bone-in or skin-on pieces may require longer baking times and additional preparation.

What are suitable substitutions for bread crumbs?

If you prefer gluten-free options, you can substitute bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers, almond flour, or Panko gluten-free bread crumbs to keep the crunch.

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes of baking time. Including prep, you’ll have a delicious baked chicken parmesan ready in under an hour.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare and bread the chicken in advance, store it covered in the refrigerator, and bake when ready. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set helps you cook evenly and clean up easily after making your flavorful chicken parmesan.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for prepping vegetables like basil or side salads to serve alongside your meal.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – Useful if you want to prepare a slow-cooked sauce to pair with your chicken.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Achieve the crispy crust without added oil using this versatile appliance.

8. Wrap-up and Inspiration for Your Next Meal

Enjoy the scrumptious taste of Italy with this easy and healthier baked chicken parmesan. It’s a delightful twist on the classic crispy chicken parmesan and perfect for any occasion. Don’t forget to explore more Italian-inspired recipes on our site, like the One-Pan Cheeseburger Orzo or our Creamy Low-Carb Chicken Bake, perfect for expanding your dinner repertoire!

9. Conclusion

Making oven-baked chicken parmesan at home is a simple way to enjoy a beloved Italian dish with less oil and mess. Its crispy crust, melted cheese, and savory sauce make it a guaranteed family favorite. Happy cooking, and savor every bite of this delicious baked chicken parmesan! For more quick and tasty recipes, visit our recipe blog.

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