Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with a bit of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking during the cooking process.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a bit of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. This flavorful coating will give your chicken a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s packed with delicious, savory flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Before coating, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the breading stick better. One at a time, dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the breading adheres well. Make sure the chicken is fully coated on all sides.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Place the breaded chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check to ensure the chicken is fully cooked, and the breading is a beautiful golden-brown, crispy texture. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Step 5: Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Use a spoon to carefully spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over the top of each chicken breast. After that, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce, ensuring each piece is covered in a gooey, cheesy layer.
Step 6: Finish Cooking and Melt the Cheese
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the mozzarella cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. This step will infuse the chicken with the flavors of the marinara and create a rich, cheesy topping that makes this dish so iconic.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before plating and serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to handle. Serve your Crispy Chicken Parmesan hot, with your favorite side dishes. Pair it with a classic spaghetti, a fresh garden salad, or even a garlic butter pasta. Feel free to savor it on its own as a delicious, low-carb option.
Tips for the Best Crispy Chicken Parmesan:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese and freshly prepared breadcrumbs. Whole wheat breadcrumbs give a slightly nutty flavor, which adds to the overall taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Be careful not to overbake the chicken before adding the marinara and cheese. Overcooking can make the chicken dry. Aim for a nice golden-brown color on the outside, which indicates that it’s ready for the next step.
- Choose Quality Marinara Sauce: The quality of the marinara sauce plays a big role in the overall taste of this dish. Opt for a sauce with a robust flavor and minimal added sugars. You can also make your own marinara sauce for a fresher taste.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add your own twist by experimenting with different herbs and spices. A touch of garlic powder, basil, or oregano can enhance the flavor profile.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
Crispy Chicken Parmesan is a dish that combines a crunchy coating with juicy, tender chicken and a burst of Italian flavors. Each bite is loaded with cheesy goodness and a hint of savory marinara sauce, offering a blend of textures that will please your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a special lunch , this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
Nutritional Information:
For those who like to keep track of their meals, here is a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (based on one of four servings):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
Enjoy this flavorful Crispy Chicken Parmesan recipe, and feel free to get creative with your side dishes. Buon appetito!