Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic that is oven baked chicken parmesan! This dish is a total crowd-pleaser, combining crispy breaded chicken with rich marinara sauce and bubbling cheese. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made it—it was a rainy evening, and the cozy aroma filled my kitchen. My family couldn’t get enough! Seriously, it’s so easy to whip up, and the flavors are just out of this world. You’ll love how the cheese gets all melty and gooey, while the chicken stays juicy and tender. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your home. So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious journey together!
Ingredients List
For this mouthwatering oven baked chicken parmesan, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts: Look for plump and juicy ones for the best flavor.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: I love using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for an extra kick, but plain works too!
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is best, but the pre-grated stuff is fine in a pinch.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A delightful blend of herbs that will elevate the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right?
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Store-bought or homemade, either way, it’ll add that rich, tomatoey goodness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey, melty star of the show!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season your chicken for that extra flavor punch!
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re all set to create a dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making this delicious oven baked chicken parmesan! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how everything comes together. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s just bursting with flavor!
Preheating the Oven
First things first, we need to preheat our oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that beautiful golden-brown crust. While the oven heats up, you can get everything else ready!
Preparing the Coating
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I like to give it a good mix with a fork until everything is well-blended. This coating is what gives the chicken that delicious crunch, so make sure it’s mixed thoroughly!
Coating the Chicken
Next, take your chicken breasts and one by one, coat them in the breadcrumb mixture. I like to press the mixture onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well—don’t be shy here! Each piece should be nicely covered in that flavorful coating.
Baking the Chicken
Now, place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
Adding Sauce and Cheese
Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time for the grand finale! Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece. Then, sprinkle that gooey shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Oh, the smell is going to be heavenly!
Nutritional Information Section
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this oven baked chicken parmesan! While I always say it’s best to enjoy food without too much worry, knowing what you’re putting into your body can be helpful. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition per serving (1 chicken breast):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But isn’t it nice to know you’re getting a good amount of protein along with those comforting carbs? Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a fantastic alternative if you’re looking for something a bit juicier and more flavorful. Just keep in mind that thighs tend to have a bit more fat, which can actually add to the richness of the dish. The cooking time might vary slightly, so just make sure to keep an eye on them. You’ll end up with a deliciously tender chicken parmesan that everyone will love!
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Great question! The best way to check if your oven baked chicken parmesan is done is to use a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Stick that thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, and when it hits that magic number, you’re all set! This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and perfectly juicy. No one wants dry chicken, right?
What sides pair well with this dish?
Oven baked chicken parmesan is so versatile and pairs beautifully with several sides! I love serving it with a big bowl of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce for that classic Italian vibe. A fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette is also a great choice to balance the richness. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, some roasted vegetables or garlic bread would complement the meal perfectly. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with any of these options!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this oven baked chicken parmesan! Here’s why it’s destined to become a favorite in your home:
- Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any fuss.
- Healthy option: Baked, not fried! This recipe keeps the chicken juicy and packed with flavor while cutting down on excess oil.
- Flavorful: The combination of crispy coating, savory marinara, and melty cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Great for meal prep: You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Just reheat and serve!
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this classic dish, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
So get ready to impress everyone at your table with this delightful recipe that checks all the boxes!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to make this delicious oven baked chicken parmesan, here are some pro tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly:
- Use a meat thermometer: This is your best friend! It’ll help you ensure your chicken is cooked to that safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without drying it out.
- Let the chicken rest: After baking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite juicy and tender.
- Customize your coating: Feel free to mix in some herbs or spices into your breadcrumb mixture. A pinch of cayenne pepper or some dried basil can add an extra flavor kick!
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give each piece of chicken space to breathe. This helps them crisp up nicely instead of steaming.
- Make it cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover like me, don’t hesitate to add more mozzarella or even a sprinkle of provolone for a delightful twist!
- Experiment with sides: Try serving it with different sides each time. You can mix things up with garlic bread, zucchini noodles, or a hearty risotto!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set for success! Enjoy the process and savor every cheesy, crispy bite of your oven baked chicken parmesan. Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, so you’ve made this delicious oven baked chicken parmesan and there’s some left over—lucky you! Storing it properly is key to keeping that mouthwatering flavor intact for the next day. Here’s how to do it:
First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. Make sure to separate the chicken from the marinara sauce if you can; this helps keep the coating crispy. You can layer the chicken with parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking.
Store your delicious leftovers in the refrigerator, and they’ll be good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze the chicken! Just wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then pop them in a freezer bag. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover chicken parmesan, reheating is key. For the best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want that cheese to get all melty again, remove the foil for the last few minutes!
If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but be careful! Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until hot. Just know that the coating might lose some of its crunch this way. So, whenever possible, go for the oven for that perfect reheated taste!
And there you have it! Easy storage and reheating tips to make sure your oven baked chicken parmesan is just as delightful the second time around. Enjoy every bite!
Final Thoughts
Wow, I really hope you’re as excited to try this oven baked chicken parmesan as I am! It’s such a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Trust me, once you’ve tasted that crispy coating and gooey cheese, you’ll want to make it again and again. Don’t be shy—give it a go and let me know how it turns out! I love hearing from fellow food lovers, so feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any tweaks you made to the recipe. And if you snap a photo of your creation, I’d adore seeing that too! Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Print
Oven Baked Chicken Parmesan: 5 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Oven baked chicken parmesan is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that features breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
- Serve hot with your choice of side.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Pair with pasta or a salad for a complete meal.
- You can use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: oven baked chicken parmesan, chicken parmesan, baked chicken