OVEN BAKED CHICKEN PARMESAN

An Easy and Delightful Twist on a Classic: Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan

There’s something truly comforting about a classic chicken parmesan dish. The blend of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese is irresistible. But what if you could enjoy all this deliciousness without the hassle of frying? Enter our Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe. It’s not just healthier, but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weekday dinner. Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish promises a restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it’s a lighter, healthier version of the traditional fried chicken parmesan. By baking the chicken, you reduce the amount of oil used and still get that crispy texture everyone loves. Plus, it’s quick to make, meaning you can have a delicious homemade meal on the table in no time.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Oven
• Gallon-sized zipper bag or cling film
• Meat pestle or rolling pin
• Shallow dishes for dredging

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound total)
• 1 egg
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and brush with olive oil. Adjust the oven rack to the second space from the top and preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise, then place them in a gallon-sized zipper bag. Pound them with a meat pestle or rolling pin to an even thickness.
3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. In another shallow dish, beat the egg.
6. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Turn the chicken over, pour 1/4 cup marinara sauce over each piece, and cover with cheese.
9. Return to the oven, turn on the broiler, and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the chicken are golden brown.

Tips for Success

Ensure the chicken breasts are an even thickness to promote uniform cooking. Pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken helps them adhere better and create a crispier crust. Watch the chicken closely while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.

Additional Tips or Variations

For added flavor, you can mix some Italian seasoning into the breadcrumb mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. For a gluten-free version, substitute the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken? While you can use pre-cooked chicken, starting with raw chicken allows the flavors to meld better during baking.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce? You can substitute with any tomato-based sauce you prefer, such as arrabbiata for extra spice.

Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, baked chicken parmesan can be frozen. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this simple and delicious Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe as much as we do! It’s perfect for any night of the week and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out. We’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you add to make the recipe your own!