Baked Chicken Parmesan

$- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs - 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs - 1 cup marinara sauce - 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste - Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling The ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan are simple but full of flavor. You need chicken breasts as the main protein. I like to use boneless and skinless chicken, which cooks evenly and stays moist. The flour helps the chicken get a nice coat, while the eggs act as the glue for the breadcrumbs. Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add a great flavor and crunch. The marinara sauce gives a lovely tang and moisture. For cheese lovers, mozzarella and Parmesan bring that ooey-gooey goodness that makes this dish special. Don't forget the fresh basil! It adds a burst of freshness. Garlic and onion powder enhance the taste, while salt and pepper bring everything together. For baking, I use olive oil spray or drizzle olive oil to keep the chicken from sticking and to help it brown. - Calories per serving: Approximately 400 calories - Macronutrient breakdown: - Protein: 35g - Carbohydrates: 30g - Fat: 15g - Dietary considerations: This dish is high in protein and can fit well into a balanced meal plan. For gluten-free needs, you can swap the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free options. These ingredients make this dish not just tasty but also nutritious. You can find the full recipe to guide you through the cooking process. Enjoy crafting this delightful meal! - Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). - Grease the baking dish with olive oil spray. Start by setting your oven to 375°F. This temperature helps the chicken cook evenly. While it heats, grab a baking dish. Lightly spray it with olive oil. This keeps the chicken from sticking. - Set up three shallow dishes with ingredients. - Preparation of flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixtures. Next, arrange three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, whisk the eggs until smooth. The third dish holds the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped basil. This gives our chicken great flavor. - Season and dredge the chicken. - Ensure a thorough coating with breadcrumbs. Now, take your chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper. Dredge each piece in the flour. Shake off any extra flour. Then, dip it in the egg. Let the excess egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently to help them stick well. - First bake duration and tips. - Adding marinara sauce and cheese. - Final bake for crispy, cheesy topping. Place the breaded chicken in the baking dish. Make sure they're in a single layer. Bake for about 25 minutes. Watch for a golden brown surface. After that, remove the dish from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for another 10 to 15 minutes. Look for bubbling cheese and a light golden color. You can find the Full Recipe above for more details. To get a nice, crispy crust on your chicken, use olive oil spray. It coats the chicken evenly and saves you from using too much oil. If you choose to drizzle olive oil instead, just be careful not to use too much. Too much oil can make the chicken soggy. Another tip is to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. After coating the chicken, press down firmly. This helps the breadcrumbs stick and forms a crunchy layer. For a flavor boost, add more herbs and spices. You can mix in dried oregano, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes. These will enhance the taste of the dish. Choosing the right marinara sauce is key. A fresh, homemade sauce will add depth. If you use store-bought, pick one that has good ingredients and no added sugars. Baked Chicken Parmesan pairs well with many sides. Serve it over spaghetti for a classic touch. A green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. You can also add extra grated Parmesan for a cheesy finish. This makes your dish look beautiful and appetizing. For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps to create this dish at home! {{image_4}} You can easily make Baked Chicken Parmesan gluten-free. Start by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. They provide the same crunch and flavor. You can find these in most stores or make your own from gluten-free bread. For the flour, use a gluten-free blend. Rice flour or almond flour also works well. These options keep your dish tasty and safe for those with gluten allergies. Cheese is a key part of this dish. While mozzarella is classic, you can explore other options. Try provolone for a sharper bite. Fontina adds a rich creaminess. Mixing different cheeses can create a deeper flavor. Experiment by blending mozzarella with Parmesan or Asiago for a unique twist. If you want to switch up the protein, turkey works great. It is lean and absorbs flavors well. You could also use thin pork cutlets for a different taste. For a meatless option, try eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms. Both options soak up the sauce and cheese nicely, making a hearty meal. Check out the Full Recipe to see all the ways to enjoy this dish! To keep your Baked Chicken Parmesan fresh, refrigerate it right away. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents odors from mixing. Always let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it up. This way, it stays tasty for up to three days. Reheating your chicken can be tricky. You want to keep it moist and tasty. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 15 to 20 minutes. Check it to make sure it's hot all the way through. If you want to save some for later, freezing works well. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This helps keep out air and prevents freezer burn. You can freeze Baked Chicken Parmesan for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy your delicious meal again! Yes, you can prepare Baked Chicken Parmesan ahead of time. To do this, follow these tips: - Bread the chicken: Complete the breading process. Place the breaded chicken in the baking dish. - Cover and refrigerate: Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - Add sauce and cheese before baking: When ready to bake, add the marinara and cheese. Bake as directed. Baked Chicken Parmesan pairs well with many sides. Here are some popular options: - Pasta: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine. - Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch and color. - Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce. - Roasted vegetables: Broccoli or zucchini balance the meal nicely. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Check at the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear when cut. If you see pink, it needs more time. Yes, you can make Baked Chicken Parmesan in an air fryer. Here are some adjustments: - Temperature: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). - Cooking time: Cook for about 12-15 minutes. Check doneness with a meat thermometer. - Add cheese: Add marinara and cheese halfway through cooking. This keeps the cheese from burning. To reheat Baked Chicken Parmesan while keeping it tasty, follow these methods: - Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish. Cover with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. - Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This method is faster but might make the chicken a bit soggy. - Air fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for a crispy finish. In this blog post, we covered how to make Baked Chicken Parmesan. We looked at the ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to achieve extra crispiness and explored tasty variations. This dish is easier than you might think and perfect for family dinners. Try it out soon and enjoy every bite. Don't forget to share with friends or save for leftovers. With these steps, you can impress anyone at home!$

Indulge in a delicious Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan that’s perfect for any dinner table! With crispy chicken breasts coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and smothered in rich marinara and gooey mozzarella, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. In just under an hour, you can create a savory feast that will impress your family and friends. Click through to discover the full recipe and elevate your dinner game tonight!

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

1 cup marinara sauce

1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Olive oil spray or 2 tablespoons olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Create a Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second dish, whisk the eggs until they are well combined. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped basil to enhance flavor.

Bread the Chicken: Season each chicken breast with salt and pepper. Dredge the chicken in the flour, ensuring to shake off any excess flour. Next, dip each piece into the beaten eggs, letting any extra egg drip off. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere well.

Arrange in the Dish: Place the breaded chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. For an extra touch of crispiness, lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over each piece.

First Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the surface is turning a lovely golden brown.

Add the Sauce and Cheese: Carefully remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast and then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top, creating a cheesy layer.

Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and has taken on a light golden color.

Rest and Garnish: Once baked, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If desired, garnish with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

- Presentation Tips: Serve the cheesy baked chicken Parmesan atop a delightful bed of spaghetti or alongside a vibrant green salad. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil and additional grated Parmesan for a visually appealing and appetizing touch.