Ah, *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan*! This dish is like a warm hug after a long day, and I can’t get enough of it! I remember the first time I made this for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in. It’s such a comforting meal, combining tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. What I love about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on traditional Chicken Parmesan since it’s baked instead of fried. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients List
To make my *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan*, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that pack a ton of flavor! Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – they’re the star of the show, so try to get ones that are even in thickness for even cooking.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – use your favorite store-bought sauce or homemade if you have it on hand; it really adds that comforting Italian flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – the ooey-gooey goodness that melts beautifully over the chicken.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that sharp, tangy kick that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – I like using seasoned ones for an extra layer of flavor, but plain works too; it gives a nice crunch!
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that really brings out the Italian vibes in this dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste – never underestimate the power of seasoning; it elevates the whole dish!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – for searing the chicken and adding a touch of richness.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Prepare Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Let’s get cooking! Making *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan* is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is!
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets that golden, bubbly finish. While it warms up, you can prep the chicken!
Step 2 – Season the Chicken
Now, take those beautiful chicken breasts and sprinkle them generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to coat them evenly on both sides. This simple step adds so much flavor, so don’t skip it! I like to press the seasoning into the chicken to really make it stick.
Step 3 – Sear the Chicken
Next, heat up the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the chicken breasts, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This is where the magic happens! Searing locks in moisture and gives your chicken a delicious crust. You want that lovely golden color before moving on!
Step 4 – Transfer and Assemble
After searing, carefully transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour marinara sauce over each piece, letting it cascade down the sides. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top. The cheese will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes!
Step 5 – Bake and Serve
Pop your baking dish into the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is all bubbly and golden. To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Serve it up hot with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, and watch everyone dig in with delight!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights!
- The combination of tender chicken, rich marinara, and melted cheese is simply unbeatable.
- Baking instead of frying makes it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- This dish is family-friendly and sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- It’s quick, taking just about 45 minutes from start to finish—who doesn’t love that?
- Leftovers? They taste even better the next day!
Nutritional Information
So, if you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of my *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan*, here you go! Each serving (that’s one piece of chicken) contains approximately 350 calories, 15 grams of fat, and a hearty 30 grams of protein. You’ll also find about 20 grams of carbohydrates and just 6 grams of sugar in there. It’s a delightful balance of flavors without overwhelming your diet. Remember, these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying! Perfect for a hearty meal that won’t weigh you down!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are great for this recipe and will add even more moisture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since they might take a bit longer.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
If you’re looking for a twist, you can use pesto or even Alfredo sauce! Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile a bit.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything ahead of time, cover it, and keep it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
Is this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t compromise on taste!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven for the best results!
Tips for Success
Want to make sure your *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan* turns out perfectly every time? Here are some pro tips to keep in mind:
- Even Thickness: Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly. If needed, pound them gently with a meat mallet!
- Let the Chicken Rest: After searing, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before adding the sauce and cheese. This helps retain moisture.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Dish: Give each piece of chicken enough space in the baking dish so the heat circulates and the cheese gets that beautiful golden brown color.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to switch things up! Add fresh basil, sliced olives, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a Chicken Parmesan pro in no time!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan*? Don’t worry, they’ll keep well! To store, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months—just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, the best way to reheat is in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quicker option, but the oven gives you that lovely, crispy texture back. Enjoy every bite, just like the first time!
Serving Suggestions
To round out your *Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan* meal, I love serving it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The crunch and brightness of the greens balance out the richness of the chicken perfectly! You can also pair it with a side of garlic bread—who can resist that heavenly combination of buttery, garlicky goodness? And if you’re in the mood for pasta, a simple spaghetti tossed with olive oil and herbs makes for a delightful addition. Trust me, these sides will elevate your dinner experience to a whole new level!
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Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a simple and delicious dish. It combines tender chicken breasts with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot with pasta or a side salad.
Notes
- Use your favorite marinara sauce.
- For extra flavor, add fresh basil on top before serving.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, Baked Chicken