Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan - No Fry, All Flavor!

Skip the frying! This baked chicken parmesan recipe is crispy, cheesy & delicious. An easy chicken parm recipe that's perfect for a Cozy Cook Italian dinner. Get the recipe now!

Alright, let's talk chicken parm ! ever crave that crispy, cheesy, saucy goodness but dread the mess of frying? i totally get it.

I asked myself: "is there a chicken parmesan recipe baked version that's just as amazing?" oh my gosh, there is! this baked chicken parmesan recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero.

Ditch the Fryer, Keep the Flavor: Cozy Cook Style

This isn't just another chicken parmesan recipe . this is the cozy cook 's take! forget standing over a hot stove.

We're baking our way to golden-brown perfection. think of it as the soul-satisfying deliciousness of a traditional chicken parm , without all the fuss.

It’s healthier, easier, and honestly? just as good!

A Classic with a Twist

Chicken parmesan , also known as chicken parm , is an italian-american classic. it's based on traditional italian dishes but adapted for american tastes.

We are going to make it easier. this chicken parmesan recipe easy version takes about an hour from start to finish.

This recipe yields four servings. perfect for a family dinner or a small get-together, like for your custom menu

Why You'll Love This Italian Dinner Recipes

One of the biggest benefits is that it's baked, not fried, so it's lighter on the calories. plus, it's an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Seriously, who doesn’t love chicken parmesan ? it's the perfect dish for a casual weeknight meal or a more special occasion like a sunday supper.

This recipe is special because it's easy, delicious, and doesn't require you to babysit a frying pan. and parmesan recipes are always a safe bet, right? trust me, this cozy cook recipe will become your go-to for baked chicken.

Now, let's gather our ingredients!

Alright, let's talk baked chicken parmesan ! it's a classic italian dinner recipe , but sometimes, let's be honest, frying that chicken feels like way too much work.

And the mess? forget about it. so, we're going chicken parmesan recipe baked , because crispy and cheesy goodness shouldn't require a hazmat suit.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Organized

This ain't your grandma's overly complicated recipe. We're keeping it real and streamlined. Think Chicken Parmesan recipe easy , even on a busy weeknight.

Main Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz/170g each)
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) black pepper
• ½ cup (60g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup (120g) Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided (save some for topping!)
• ¼ cup (60ml) olive oil
• 2 cups (about 500ml) marinara sauce – Go for the good stuff, people!
• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional but seriously recommended)

Quality check: for the chicken, look for breasts that are plump and pink. no weird smells, okay? and the mozzarella? fresh is always better.

Seriously, you can taste the difference. good quality marinara is also important, the sauce is what bring it all together, the cozy cook style!

Seasoning Notes

Think beyond just salt and pepper. This is where the magic happens! This really is a Chicken Parm to die for.

• Essential Spice Combo: Italian seasoning in the breadcrumbs is key. Oregano, basil, thyme – the whole shebang!
• Flavor Enhancers: A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder in the breadcrumbs can take things up a notch. You know, a little somethin' somethin'.
• Quick Subs: No Italian seasoning? No sweat. Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Boom!

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple. No fancy gadgets required.

• Meat mallet or rolling pin – Gotta flatten those bad boys!
• Shallow dishes or plates – For the breading station. Paper plates work in a pinch, don't judge!
• Large baking sheet
• Parchment paper – Makes cleanup a breeze. Seriously.
• Instant-read thermometer – Critical for making sure your chicken is cooked through to 165° F ( 74° C) .

Household Alternatives: No meat mallet? Use a rolling pin or even the bottom of a heavy pan. Necessity is the mother of invention, right? You can create the perfect custom menu with this recipe!

Ready to get started with this Chicken Parmesan Recipe ? Let's do this! This Parmesan Recipes is to die for!.

The Best Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe: Crispy, Cheesy Bliss!

Okay, so you wanna make chicken parmesan recipe baked , but you're scared of frying? girl, i feel you! honestly, deep-frying intimidates me too.

But that doesn't mean we have to miss out on that classic italian comfort food. this chicken parmesan recipe easy is all about ditching the oil and embracing the oven.

Think less grease, more deliciousness.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic

First things first: mise en place. fancy, right? it just means "everything in its place." get your 4 chicken breasts pounded to about ½ inch thick.

Season 'em up with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper. get three shallow dishes ready for your breading station: one with ½ cup of flour, one with 2 lightly beaten eggs, and one with 1 cup of italian seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese.

This cozy cook move saves so much time! and remember, raw chicken is no joke! wash your hands after handling.

Safety first.

From Raw to Ready: The Step-by-Step

Ready to get down to business? Here's how we make Chicken Parm magic happen:

1. Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) . Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Trust me on the parchment paper; cleanup is a breeze.
2. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then the egg, then coat it completely in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure that coating is thorough .
3. Arrange those breaded beauties on the baking sheet. Drizzle each with olive oil (about ¼ cup total). Don't be shy!
4. Bake for 20- 25 minutes . You want it golden brown and the internal temp to hit 165° F ( 74° C) . Use a thermometer!
5. Pull 'em out. Top each breast with ½ cup of marinara sauce, two slices of mozzarella, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan. Use a good quality marinara or a homemade version.
6. Back into the oven for 5- 10 minutes , until that cheese is melted and bubbly. Oooey Gooey.
7. Garnish with fresh basil if you're feeling fancy. Serve immediately!

Pro Tips for The Cozy Cook

Want that restaurant-quality chicken parmesan recipe ? here's the secret sauce: pound the chicken evenly so it cooks evenly. i use a rolling pin for this.

Don't overcrowd the pan either or it won't brown up properly. and don't overcook it! dry baked chicken parmesan is a tragedy.

Looking for make-ahead? you can bread the chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. this dish perfectly complements a nice custom menu as one of your italian dinner recipes .

So there you have it: chicken parmesan recipe baked that's easy, delicious, and doesn't require you to stand over a hot fryer all day.

Serve it with pasta, garlic bread, and a simple salad for the perfect meal. enjoy, friends! these parmesan recipes are a must-try.

Alright, let’s dive deeper into this amazing baked chicken parmesan ! It’s not just a Chicken Parmesan Recipe ; it's an experience. Trust me on this one, okay?

Recipe Notes for the Perfect Chicken Parm

This chicken parmesan recipe baked is designed for success. these notes make it even better. you know, like when you add that extra pinch of salt? perfection! this is straight from the cozy cook playbook.

I call myself cozy cook , by the way!

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Okay, so presentation matters. Seriously!

• Plating and Presentation Ideas: Okay, think Italian trattoria . A swirl of pasta, a generous slice of Chicken Parm , and a sprig of fresh basil. Boom. Also, consider a rustic wooden board for serving. Italian Dinner Recipes should look the part!
• Complementary Sides or Beverages: My go-to? A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Cuts through the richness perfectly. For drinks, a crisp Pinot Grigio is killer. Or, you know, a fizzy water if you're being good. For Custom Menu , use complementary food such as garlic bread.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Goodness Going

Life happens, right? Sometimes you can't eat it all in one go.

• Refrigeration Guidelines: Store leftover Chicken Parmesan Recipe Easy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Honestly, it never lasts that long at my place!
• Freezing Options (if applicable): You can freeze it. But... honestly? It's best fresh. The breading can get a bit soggy. If you must, freeze individual portions in freezer bags.
• Reheating Instructions: Oven is best! Reheat at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through. Microwave works in a pinch. I've done that many times!

Variations: Make It Your Own, Boo!

This is where you get to be creative. Remember, this recipe is your starting point, now for a Chicken Parmesan Recipe with your own little touch!

• Dietary Adaptations: Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. Boom! Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for thick slices of eggplant. Problem solved.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the summer, use fresh, ripe tomatoes for your sauce. Winter? Maybe add a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth. A Chicken Parm for all seasons.

Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff

Let's keep it real, this is comfort food. But it's also got some good stuff going on.

• Simplified Nutrition Information: Roughly 550 calories, 45g protein, 30g fat per serving. Give or take.
• Key Health Benefits: Protein! Hello, muscle building. Also, the tomatoes in the sauce have lycopene, which is good for you. So, you know, it's not all bad! Plenty of Parmesan Recipes for you to enjoy!

Honestly? this baked chicken parmesan is a winner. it’s easy, delicious, and relatively healthy. what's not to love? it’s all about having fun and maybe making a bit of a mess.

Get in the kitchen and try this chicken parm . you won't regret it! it might even make the top ten of your italian dinner recipes list! for more parmesan recipes and italian food, you know what to do!

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My baked chicken parmesan isn't crispy. What am I doing wrong?

Achieving crispy perfection with baked chicken parmesan is all about technique! First, make sure you're pounding the chicken to an even thickness – about ½ inch is ideal. This ensures it cooks evenly. Secondly, don't skip the olive oil drizzle; it's crucial for browning. Finally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give each piece enough space to crisp up. Think of it like giving them room to breathe – they need that hot air circulating to get that lovely crunch. You could also consider a quick broil at the end – keep a close eye on it though, you don't want to burn the cheese!

Can I make baked chicken parmesan ahead of time?

You can definitely prep components ahead! Bread the chicken earlier in the day and keep it covered in the fridge. However, I wouldn’t recommend fully baking it in advance as the chicken can dry out and the breading can get soggy. Instead, bake the breaded chicken until almost done, then add the sauce and cheese just before serving. It's like getting a head start without sacrificing that fresh-out-of-the-oven deliciousness, a bit like batch-cooking your Sunday roast prep!

What's the best way to store leftover baked chicken parmesan?

Store leftover baked chicken parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave if you're in a rush – but be warned, the breading might lose some of its crispness. Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions for longer storage. Just make sure to thaw completely before reheating. No one wants a soggy bottom, right?

I'm trying to cut down on calories. Are there any healthier alternatives for making baked chicken parmesan?

Absolutely! You can lighten things up by using part-skim mozzarella cheese. Also, be mindful of the amount of olive oil you use – a light drizzle is all you need. Another sneaky trick is to use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber. Don't be afraid to experiment with different marinara sauces too; some jarred versions can be quite high in sugar, so look for lower-sugar options or even make your own. Remember, small changes can add up to a big difference, a bit like swapping your regular cuppa for a green tea!

Can I use different types of cheese in my baked chicken parmesan?

Definitely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to get creative. Provolone cheese offers a similar melting quality with a slightly sharper flavor. A sprinkle of Pecorino Romano can add a salty, tangy kick. You could even add a layer of ricotta cheese under the mozzarella for extra creaminess! It’s all about finding the right cheese that suits your preference, a bit like choosing your favourite Doctor in Doctor Who.

My kids are picky eaters, any tips for making this baked chicken parmesan more appealing to them?

Ah, the picky eater conundrum! Try cutting the chicken into smaller, bite-sized pieces. You could also use fun cookie cutters to create interesting shapes. Some kids aren't fans of chunky tomato sauce, so consider pureeing it for a smoother texture. And, of course, don't underestimate the power of presentation! A sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan and a colourful side dish like steamed broccoli can make all the difference. Think Mary Poppins – a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down, and a sprinkle of cheese helps the chicken go down!

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