Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a lighter and healthier twist on a classic Italian-American dish! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Choice: Made with a lighter breading and baked instead of fried, this Chicken Parmesan is a healthier alternative to the traditional version.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of crispy chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese creates a delicious and satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Versatile: Serve this Baked Chicken Parmesan with your favorite sides, such as pasta, zucchini noodles, or a side salad. It’s also great for meal prepping or freezing for later.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Eggs: Used to help the breading adhere to the chicken.
• Cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs: Crushed and used to create a crispy coating. You can also use almond flour crackers for a gluten-free option.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the breading.
• Salt and pepper: Season the chicken and breading to perfection.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of classic Italian herbs to the breading.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: Sliced and adds a cheesy and gooey topping.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Breading

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps them cook evenly and quickly. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another shallow bowl, combine the cracker crumbs (or breadcrumbs), grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.

Step 3: Coat and Bake the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast in the egg wash, ensuring both sides are coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top each chicken breast with about ⅓ cup of marinara sauce and a slice of mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Broil and Serve

Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Then, broil for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning. Remove from the oven and serve immediately over your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or with a side salad.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Pound the chicken evenly: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Use high-quality cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh mozzarella cheese will have the best flavor and melt beautifully.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry. Bake just until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
• Broil with caution: Keep a close eye on the chicken while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
• Make ahead: You can bread the chicken cutlets ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is delicious with a variety of sides:

• Pasta: Serve the chicken parmesan over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a healthier and lower-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

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

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of cracker crumbs or almond flour?

Yes, you can! However, cracker crumbs or almond flour offer a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.

3. Can I make this recipe without the marinara sauce?

Yes, you can! You can simply bake the breaded chicken cutlets and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

4. Can I add other seasonings to the chicken or breading?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs.

This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a lighter version of a classic Italian-American dish. With its simple preparation, versatile serving options, and flavorful ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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