Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan

$To make Baked Chicken Parmesan, you will need the following ingredients: - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon dried basil - 2 large eggs, beaten - 2 cups marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Salt and pepper to taste - Olive oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference in flavor. Fresh chicken gives a juicy bite. Fresh herbs like basil and oregano add vibrant taste. When you use good quality marinara sauce, it boosts the dish. Always check the dates on your products. Fresh ingredients lead to a better meal. They enhance the texture and aroma, making your dish more enjoyable. You can switch out some ingredients if you need to. For chicken, you can use turkey breasts as a leaner option. Instead of Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs work too. You can mix in some Italian herbs for flavor. If you do not have Parmesan cheese, try Pecorino Romano instead. For a non-dairy option, use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella. These swaps can still make your Baked Chicken Parmesan tasty and enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. A hot oven helps the chicken get crispy. Make sure to use a reliable oven thermometer for accuracy. In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This blend gives the chicken flavor. In another bowl, beat the eggs until they are smooth. Dip each chicken breast in the eggs, then coat it in the breadcrumb mix. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to help them stick well. Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tops with olive oil or brush them with a bit of oil. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Look for golden brown breadcrumbs. Once done, take the chicken out and pour marinara sauce over each piece. Make sure to cover them evenly. Next, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return the chicken to the oven for another 10 minutes. Wait for the cheese to melt and bubble. After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves for added flavor before you serve. To cook your chicken evenly, follow a few simple steps. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your chicken breasts are of similar size. This helps them cook at the same rate. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C). Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes helps keep it juicy. For that perfect crispy texture, coating is key. Use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. After dipping each chicken breast in beaten eggs, coat them well in the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to ensure the crumbs stick. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil before baking. This adds extra crunch. Baking the chicken on parchment paper also prevents sticking while allowing air to circulate. If you prefer different cooking methods, you have options. You can use an air fryer for a healthier version. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway for even cooking. You can also grill the chicken. Marinate it first for extra flavor. Cook on medium heat until done. Each method gives a unique twist to your baked chicken Parmesan. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality marinara sauce to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Perfectly Crispy Chicken: For an extra crispy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs. Let It Rest: Allow the baked chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking for juicier meat and better flavor absorption. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or fontina for a unique twist on the classic mozzarella topping. {{image_4}} To make a healthier Baked Chicken Parmesan, swap regular breadcrumbs for whole wheat ones. Whole wheat breadcrumbs offer more fiber and nutrients. They still give a great crunch and flavor. Just use the same amount as the recipe calls for. This small change makes a big difference in nutrition without losing taste. If you want a vegetarian version, replace chicken with eggplant or zucchini. Slice the vegetables into thick rounds. Follow the same steps of coating and baking. They will soak up the marinara sauce and cheese just like chicken. This option gives you a tasty and hearty meal that’s meat-free. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda to change the taste. You can also mix in some feta cheese for a tangy kick. Using a blend of cheeses adds depth and richness to the dish. Try different combinations to find your favorite mix. To store your baked chicken Parmesan, let it cool first. Place leftover chicken in an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate the sauce if you want the chicken to stay crispy. When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it for quick reheating, but the oven keeps it crispy. If you want to freeze baked chicken Parmesan, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy it later. It stays good for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge before reheating. The best way to know if chicken is cooked is by checking its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. You can also check the color. The meat should be white, not pink. Juices should run clear when you cut it. Both methods help you avoid undercooking or overcooking your chicken. Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you need to thaw them first. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for best results. If you need to cook them right away, you can also use the microwave. After thawing, follow the main recipe steps. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they cook fully. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven cooking, so thawing is best. To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute the breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. These options give you that crunchy texture. You should also check the marinara sauce. Ensure it is gluten-free, as some brands may add gluten. With these simple swaps, you can enjoy Baked Chicken Parmesan without gluten. This guide covers key points for making delicious chicken. We explored fresh ingredients and tasty swaps for your meals. I shared step-by-step directions for preparing, coating, and baking the chicken to perfection. You learned tips for even cooking and how to make it crispy. I also provided options for healthier, vegetarian, and flavorful variations. Finally, we discussed storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. Enjoy cooking and feel confident with these methods for great results!$

Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan

A delicious and crispy chicken dish topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 35

Total Time 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
pieces Fresh basil leaves for garnish
to taste Salt and pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until fully combined.
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip back into the bowl. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well.
Arrange the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or brush them with the tablespoon of olive oil.
Place the chicken in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and carefully pour marinara sauce over the top of each breast.
Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce on each chicken breast.
Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese has melted and is bubbly.
After baking, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

Serve on a rustic wooden platter with extra marinara sauce and fresh basil for garnish.

Keyword baked, cheesy, chicken, parmesan