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Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

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3.9 from 15 reviews

This Baked Chicken Parmesan is a healthier twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, featuring crispy whole wheat Panko and Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs baked to golden perfection. Lightly coated chicken breasts are topped with rich tomato sauce, melted part-skim mozzarella, and fresh basil, making it a delicious and satisfying meal served in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Chicken and Coating

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 ounces each)
  • 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 large egg whites

Toppings

  • 4 ounces part-skim mozzarella cheese (sliced or grated)
  • 1/2 cup high-quality jarred tomato sauce (plus extra for serving as desired)
  • Fresh basil (thinly sliced or chopped)

Optional for Serving

  • Prepared whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles

Instructions

  1. Cut the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make four pieces total. Pound each piece to an even 1/2-inch thickness and set aside.
  2. Prepare Coatings: In a wide, shallow bowl (a pie dish works well), combine the Italian breadcrumbs, whole wheat Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until lightly foamy. Slice or grate mozzarella and divide it into four equal portions.
  3. Dredge the Chicken: Set up your workstation in order: pounded chicken, egg whites, breadcrumb mixture, then the prepared baking sheet. Dip each chicken piece into the egg whites, shaking off the excess. Then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing the crumbs so they adhere well on all sides.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and the crust is golden brown. Note that the temperature will rise after removing from the oven to reach the safe 165°F for chicken.
  5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each piece, then top with a slice or portion of mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese has melted.
  6. Serve: Garnish the baked chicken Parmesan with fresh basil and serve immediately. Accompany with extra tomato sauce and your choice of prepared whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles, or enjoy the chicken on its own.

Notes

  • Make sure to pound the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
  • Using part-skim mozzarella reduces fat without compromising flavor.
  • Crispy crust forms better when the chicken is coated evenly with breadcrumbs.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature.
  • Leftover chicken Parmesan can be refrigerated and reheated, but the crust may lose some crispness.

Find it online: https://recipefeastful.com/baked-chicken-parmesan-recipe/