Baked Chicken Parmesan

Baked Chicken Parmesan: The Ultimate Comfort Food Delight 🧀🍗🍅

1. Introduction

Craving a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying? Look no further than this incredible baked chicken parmesan recipe! This isn’t just any chicken parmesan bake; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that come together in a simple, yet elegant way. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in crispy breadcrumbs, smothered in a rich marinara sauce, and topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella. If you are looking for more dinner ideas, check out our dinner category.

This easy chicken parmesan is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Forget the hassle of frying; our oven baked chicken parmesan method ensures a healthier, less messy cooking experience without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. Making baked chicken parmesan has never been easier! Let’s dive into how you can create this family-favorite dish with ease! You can explore more delicious recipes on our site!

2. Why This Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe Works

Traditional Chicken Parmesan often involves frying the chicken, which can be time-consuming and add extra calories. This baked chicken parmesan recipe offers a lighter, healthier alternative without compromising on flavor or texture. Need more convincing? Check out this similar recipe for a different take. Baking the chicken allows it to stay juicy while the breadcrumb coating becomes perfectly crispy. The combination of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese creates a gooey, flavorful topping that complements the chicken beautifully. Plus, it’s an easy chicken parmesan recipe that anyone can master! If you love baked recipes, try our baked zucchini chips.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for this amazing oven baked chicken parmesan. Here’s a detailed list:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

4. Equipment Needed

Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy chicken parmesan:

• Baking dish (9×13 inch): Essential for baking the chicken evenly.
• Shallow dishes for breading: These make the breading process neat and efficient.
• Oven

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect baked chicken parmesan recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, combine the Italian breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. This is the base for your delicious baked chicken parmesan. Consider pairing this with our roasted red pepper soup!

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Lightly grease the baking dish with olive oil. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure each piece is generously covered to ensure a moist and flavorful oven baked chicken parmesan. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce. This cheesy layer is what makes this chicken parmesan bake so irresistible! For a lighter side, try our baked stuffed tomatoes.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Keep a close eye on the cheese to prevent it from burning, ensuring your baked chicken parmesan recipe turns out perfectly golden. While you wait, why not read more about us?

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.. Serve your easy chicken parmesan hot over spaghetti, with a side of garlic bread, or alongside a fresh salad. If you’re looking for something different, broiled salmon with dill is always a hit. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!

6. Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Parmesan

Here are some expert tips to ensure your baked chicken parmesan recipe is a success:

• Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If needed, use two baking dishes to avoid overcrowding, which can steam the chicken instead of baking it.
• Rest After Baking: Letting the oven baked chicken parmesanrest for a few minutes before serving allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

7. Variations and Additions

Want to customize your chicken parmesan bake? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or marinara sauce for a little heat.
• Add Vegetables: Sauté some sliced mushrooms, peppers, or onions and add them to the baking dish before topping with cheese.
• Use Different Cheeses: Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a richer, more complex flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this chicken parmesan bake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Thinking of a vegan option? Try our vegan coconut curry.

8. Serving Suggestions

This easy chicken parmesan pairs perfectly with:

• Spaghetti or other pasta
• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed vegetables

Consider a hearty soup as a starter. Our roasted garlic lentil soup would be a fantastic choice.

9. Conclusion

This baked chicken parmesan recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried versions. With its simple steps and readily available ingredients, it’s an oven baked chicken parmesan dish you can easily whip up any night of the week. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of this classic comfort food! We hope you enjoy making this baked chicken parmesan as much as we do!

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