Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner that the whole family will love, look no further than this Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe. This dish is a healthy twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan, featuring crispy chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese—all without the extra oil from frying. Let’s delve into the delicious origins of this popular Italian-American staple and walk through how to create it in your own kitchen.

The Origins of the Recipe

Chicken Parmesan, known as “Pollo alla Parmigiana” in Italy, has its roots deeply planted in Southern Italian cuisine. While it’s not a traditional dish in Italy, it found its stride in the United States, particularly among Italian immigrants who adapted classic recipes to fit local tastes and ingredients. The dish combines a breaded chicken cutlet, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection, creating a satisfying meal full of flavor. Over the years, variations of Chicken Parmesan have emerged, but the essence remains the same. The baked version is not only easier to make, but it also lends itself to a healthier preparation without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Parmesan

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken is cooked evenly and has a lovely crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the oven is preheating, take your chicken breasts and place them between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ½ inch thick. This will help the chicken cook evenly.

Step 3: Season and Bread the Chicken

In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each piece of chicken in the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has a golden-brown crust.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and turn the broiler on. Spoon about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese and a little more Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Broil until Golden

Return the chicken to the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and then garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.

FAQ

1. Can I make Baked Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh when you’re ready to eat, or you can bake it entirely and reheat it later. Simply cover it with foil while reheating to prevent the chicken from drying out.

2. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can definitely substitute chicken thighs for the breasts! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer depending on their thickness.

3. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in this recipe. They will still add the same crunchy texture and flavor to your Baked Chicken Parmesan.

This Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe is not just easy to make but also a comforting family favorite. With its rich flavors and crispy texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your home. Happy cooking!