Description
A lighter version of classic Chicken Parmesan, this recipe features breaded chicken breasts baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, it’s perfect for a wholesome, flavorful dinner without frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 pieces)
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (such as 4C, or gluten-free crumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or Romano cheese)
- 2 tbsp butter (melted, or olive oil)
- cooking spray
Toppings
- 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese (shredded, e.g., Polly-o)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 450°F and lightly spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Coating: In a bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, melt the butter or warm olive oil.
- Coat Chicken: Lightly brush each chicken piece with the melted butter, then dip into the breadcrumb mixture, coating thoroughly. Place each breaded piece on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all pieces are coated.
- Bake Initial Stage: Lightly spray a bit more cooking spray on top of the coated chicken and bake in the oven for 25 minutes until crisp and cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven, spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce over each piece, and top each with 1 1/2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Final Bake: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving for added color and flavor.
Notes
- This recipe skips frying for a healthier, lighter version while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
- You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Butter can be substituted with olive oil for a dairy-free or lighter fat option.
- Leftover chicken can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Pair this dish with pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 248 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 447 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9.5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 98.5 mg
