Baked Chicken Parmesan: A Quick and Tasty Weeknight Staple
Baked Chicken Parmesan stands as a cherished Italian-American dish that melds juicy chicken, flavorful marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese—all baked beautifully. This simplified approach eliminates the frying process and requires just one baking dish, making it an ideal option for hectic weeknights or relaxed meals.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- Fast and Simple: With only 5 minutes of preparation and 25 minutes of cooking, your dinner is ready in 30 minutes.
- One-Dish Convenience: Everything comes together in a single baking dish—fewer messes and less cleanup.
- Healthier Choice: Baking instead of frying means this meal is lighter while still offering robust flavor and a satisfying bite.
- Adaptable: Easily modify the spice level, cheese variety, or serve alongside your preferred side like pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredient Summary
This recipe features straightforward, pantry-ready ingredients to craft a comforting, cheesy chicken dish:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are more lean.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper enhance flavor and add a hint of spice.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose homemade or store-bought marinara for a flavorful tomato foundation.
- Cheeses: A blend of grated Parmesan (Parmigiano Reggiano) and shredded mozzarella creates a melty and golden cap.
- Breadcrumb Topping: Panko breadcrumbs combined with melted butter, garlic powder, and oregano provide a crunchy topping.
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle over the dish post-baking for a fresh and fragrant touch.
Instructions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Season the chicken: Position chicken in a baking dish and coat with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Add sauce and cheese: Layer the marinara sauce over the chicken, then crown with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
- Prepare the breadcrumb topping: Combine melted butter with garlic powder, oregano, and panko breadcrumbs. Distribute over the cheese.
- Bake: Insert the dish into the oven and bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the topping browns too fast, cover it with foil.
- Finish and serve: Top with fresh basil and serve hot.
Serving Ideas
This adaptable dish complements a variety of sides:
- Classic spaghetti or penne pasta
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice or risotto
- Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad
Tips and Variations
- Spice it up: Incorporate extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the marinara.
- Try different cheeses: Experiment with provolone, fontina, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a new flavor.
- Low-carb alternative: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dish a day ahead and refrigerate until it’s time to bake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 426
- Fat: 29g (Saturated: 16g)
- Cholesterol: 164mg
- Sodium: 1211mg
- Carbohydrates