Name: Baked Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved horizontally); Salt (to taste); 1/2 cup whole-wheat panko bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 Tbsp flaxseed meal; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 pieces egg whites; 1 tsp water; 2 1/2 cups favorite marinara (or this recipe); 2 medium zucchini (spiralized); 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 Tbsp fresh basil leaves (chopped); Cooking spray

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There’s something truly special about the comforting embrace of a delicious home-cooked meal, especially when it comes to Baked Chicken Parmesan. This dish takes me back to my childhood, where weekends were often filled with family gatherings and the aroma of baked goods wafting through the air. Imagine the warmth of the kitchen, laughter echoing as everyone eagerly awaits the serving of this classic favorite. It’s not just a meal; it’s a tradition that brings people together, where each bite feels like a hug from an old friend. I remember, my mom would make this dish with such love, pairing it with her homemade marinara sauce, and now I love crafting it in my own kitchen. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, crispy breadcrumbs, and gooey cheese layered over a bed of zucchini noodles is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Baked Chicken Parmesan never fails to impress.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Grater, Frying Pan, Skillet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

What’s Great About This Baked Chicken Parmesan

Comfort Food at Its Best

This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The moment you take a bite of the crispy chicken topped with melted cheese, it feels like a warm embrace. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether a quiet evening at home or a festive gathering with loved ones.

Healthier Twist

Using zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta gives a fresh, healthy twist to this classic dish. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without compromising on taste, making it a win-win for everyone!

Easy to Make

Despite its impressive appearance, Baked Chicken Parmesan is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for those busy weeknights.

Perfect for Leftovers

This dish makes fantastic leftovers, which is always a bonus. Whether you enjoy it cold or reheated, the flavors meld even more, making it just as delicious the next day.

Impressive Presentation

When plated, Baked Chicken Parmesan looks stunning. It’s a dish that can impress guests while still being approachable and comforting. The vibrant colors of the zucchini noodles, marinara sauce, and fresh basil sprinkle elevate the visual appeal.

Family Favorite

It’s a dish that everyone loves, from kids to adults. The blend of flavors and textures in Baked Chicken Parmesan makes it a universal favorite that’s sure to please any palate.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to the ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan, simplicity is key. This dish features a handful of core players that work wonderfully together to create a symphony of flavors. The succulent chicken forms the base, while the crispy coating adds texture, and the melty cheese brings everything together in a delightful way. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this dish not just a meal, but a celebration of flavors.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally: The star of the dish, these chicken breasts provide protein and a juicy bite.
Salt and ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of the chicken and the other ingredients.
1/2 cup whole-wheat panko bread crumbs: These add the perfect crunch to the chicken, giving it a delightful texture.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
2 Tbsp flaxseed meal: A nutritious addition that helps bind the breadcrumbs while providing healthy omega-3s.
1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an aromatic, earthy flavor to the mix, enhancing the overall taste.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with a hint of garlicky goodness without overpowering.
2 egg whites: Used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken for that crispy coating.
1 tsp water: Helps to whip the egg whites into a frothy consistency for better coating.
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce: A delicious sauce that adds moisture and flavor to the dish.
2 medium zucchini, spiralized: Replacing traditional pasta, these zucchini noodles add freshness and a healthy twist.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top of the chicken, providing that gooey texture everyone loves.
2 Tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped: A fragrant herb that adds freshness and a pop of color.
Cooking spray: Prevents sticking to the baking sheet and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.

How to Cook Baked Chicken Parmesan

Cooking Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas. Follow these steps to create a dish your family will love. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through the process so you can achieve crispy chicken with perfectly melted cheese.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
Take the chicken breasts and cut them horizontally to create thinner pieces. Then, pound each piece about 1/2 inch thick. This step is crucial for even cooking and tenderness.
Season the chicken with salt and ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here; a good seasoning will elevate the flavors.
In a shallow dish, mix together the panko bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, flaxseed meal, oregano, and garlic powder. This mixture will create a crunchy coating that’s full of flavor.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and water until frothy. This is your binding agent for the breadcrumbs.
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides. Repeat this until all chicken is coated.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and transfer the breaded chicken onto it. Spray the tops with cooking spray to help them crisp up while baking.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes. Look for the juices to run clear and the chicken to be cooked through.
While the chicken is baking, heat your marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. This will warm it up for serving.
Spiralize the zucchini and set it aside on paper towels to absorb any excess water. Sprinkle a little salt on them to help draw out the moisture.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and top each piece with 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce and 2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese. Place it back in the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted.
To serve, spoon 1/4 cup of heated marinara onto the zucchini noodles. This will soften them without the need for extra cooking. Top with the baked chicken and sprinkle with fresh basil. Enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Temperature Matters: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that crispy texture.
Pounding Chicken: This step is essential for even cooking and achieving tenderness; don’t skip it!
Coating Technique: Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a good coating.
Resting Zucchini: Letting zucchini rest on paper towels helps remove extra moisture for a better texture.

Making Adjustments

When it comes to adapting Baked Chicken Parmesan, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Whether you want to adjust the flavors or tweak the ingredients, here are some great tips to consider.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, uncooked dish for up to three months. Just bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.
Pairing: Serve your Baked Chicken Parmesan with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Variations: Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or use eggplant for a vegetarian option!
Adjusting Spice Levels: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

Serve This Baked Chicken Parmesan With

Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the marinara sauce.
Caesar Salad: A crisp salad makes for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted vegetables add a healthy, colorful side to your plate.
Wine: A non-alcoholic sparkling grape juice can be a fun, festive alternative to pair with this dish.
Seasonal Vegetables: Pair with whatever is in season for a fresh, vibrant side.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven and bake it until heated through. This is particularly handy for busy weeknights or special occasions.

It’s versatile! Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it over pasta for a more traditional approach. The options are endless!

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to three days. For the best taste, reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain the crispy texture.

Yes! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using eggplant or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken. Both options hold the breading well and absorb the flavors beautifully.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Parmesan is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings family and friends together. With its delicious layers of flavor and comforting texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to try it for your next dinner; I promise it will be a hit!