Looking for a simple yet delicious dinner idea? Baked Chicken Parmesan is the answer! With juicy chicken, crispy breading, and melty cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. In this post, I’ll show you how to make a mouthwatering Baked Chicken Parmesan step-by-step. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find all the tips and tricks you need! Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
List of Essential Ingredients
To make a delicious baked chicken Parmesan, you will need these essential ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Seasoning and Coating Ingredients
The right seasonings make all the difference. Here’s what you need:
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Suggested Cooking Tools
Having the right tools makes cooking easier. Here are the tools you should gather:
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
These ingredients and tools are key for crafting the perfect baked chicken Parmesan. Each item plays a role in building flavor and texture. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Chicken
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Mixing the Coating
– Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
– Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl.
Breading the Chicken
– Dip chicken breasts in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off.
– Coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Baking Process
– Place breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet and spray tops with cooking spray.
– Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Final Touches
– Add marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then return to oven for 5-7 minutes.
Serving Instructions
– Let chicken rest, garnish with basil leaves, and serve.
Cooking Baked Chicken Parmesan is simple and fun. You can follow these steps from the Full Recipe to create a tasty meal that everyone will love. Enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving a Crispy Coating
To get that perfect crunch, use Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. They add great flavor. Before baking, spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray. This helps create a golden, crispy layer.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch out chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat. For a fun twist, try using Alfredo sauce instead of marinara. It gives a creamy touch to your dish.
Perfecting Cooking Time
Always check the chicken with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can try different cheese options to change the flavor. Provolone adds a nice melt. Cheddar gives a sharp taste. Mix mozzarella with these cheeses for a fun twist. Each cheese brings its own vibe to the dish. Experiment and see what you like best.
Adding Vegetables
Adding vegetables makes the dish even better. Spinach works well in the marinara sauce. It adds color and health benefits. Mushrooms also bring a nice texture and flavor. Try sautéing them first for extra taste. You can mix and match to suit your taste.
Gluten-Free Version
Want a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating. Check your marinara sauce labels to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this dish too. Cooking can be tasty and inclusive for everyone!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and tasty. I recommend using glass containers. They help keep flavors fresh and are easy to clean.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results. This method keeps the coating crispy. It usually takes about 15 minutes to warm through. You can cover it lightly with foil to stop it from getting too brown.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the chicken before baking for a quick meal later. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
How long do you bake Baked Chicken Parmesan?
You should bake Baked Chicken Parmesan at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. This time ensures the chicken cooks through and stays juicy. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The outside will turn golden brown, making it look and taste delicious.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking times. Frozen chicken may need 5-10 extra minutes in the oven. Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Is Baked Chicken Parmesan healthy?
Baked Chicken Parmesan can be healthy with a few tweaks. Use lean chicken breasts to cut down on fat. You can also use less cheese to lower calories. Serving it with a salad adds freshness and nutrients. Enjoy your meal guilt-free while still savoring every bite!
This blog post covered how to make Baked Chicken Parmesan. We talked about the key ingredients, cooking tools, and step-by-step instructions. I shared tips for achieving a crispy coating and suggested tasty variations. Storing and reheating leftovers was also important if you want to enjoy this dish later.
Baked Chicken Parmesan is simple and fun to make. You can easily change ingredients to suit your taste. Enjoy cooking and have a delicious meal!
