Baked Chicken Parmesan

Ultimate Baked Chicken Parmesan Delight 🍽️🧀🍗

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and crispy chicken dish, look no further than this Ultimate Baked Chicken Parmesan Delight. This dish combines tender breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, baked to perfection for an easy and flavorful dinner. Perfect for family meals or a weekend treat, this baked chicken parmesan recipe offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken while delivering all the deliciousness you’d expect. Ready in under an hour, this crispy chicken parmesan recipe is an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

2. Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Chicken Parmesan

Preparation of Chicken Breasts

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Breading Process

Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.

Baking the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear each breaded chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Adding the Sauce and Cheese

Remove the skillet from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Serving the Chicken Parmesan

Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot alongside a side of savory orzo or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Chicken Parmesan

Allow the leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

5. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

Pair this easy chicken parmesan with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad. For an extra veggie boost, add a serving of roasted vegetables or a simple steamed broccoli.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Chicken Parmesan

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well and remain juicy. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they cook through completely.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almond flour for a gluten-free crust.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

From start to finish, expect about 45 minutes to 1 hour, making it a quick yet impressive dinner option.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – The perfect cookware set makes cooking and cleaning a breeze, especially when searing and baking. This durable set ensures your dishes come out perfectly every time.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – Unwind after a delicious meal with a refreshing drink made with this high-tech smoothie maker.
• Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – For a make-ahead version, prepare your marinara sauce or cooked vegetables in this versatile slow cooker.

8. Additional Tips for the Best Chicken Parmesan

Ensure your chicken is evenly coated for maximum crunch and flavor. Use fresh basil for an authentic Italian touch, or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce for added heat. For extra crispiness, you can broil the cheese for 2 minutes before serving.

9. Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend feast, this Ultimate Baked Chicken Parmesan Delight hits all the right notes. It’s a dish filled with crispy goodness, melty cheese, and rich marinara sauce, all baked to perfection. Try this recipe today and enjoy a classic comfort food with a modern, healthy twist!

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