Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe: Tips, Nutrition & Serving Ideas

Parmesan Crusted Chicken features chicken breasts coated in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. The coating turns crispy during baking, creating a delightful contrast with the tender chicken inside. Essentially, this dish transforms simple chicken breasts into a flavorful, crispy entrée that’s sure to please any palate.

• Flavor: Combining Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs adds rich and savory notes to the crispy crust.
• Ease of Preparation: Preparing Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying reduces fat content, making it a healthier meal option.
• Versatility: It’s suitable for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, and special occasions alike, offering flexibility for various meal planning needs.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids enjoy this dish’s familiar, crispy texture similar to that of chicken tenders, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients and Substitutes

Essential Ingredients for the Dish

To prepare Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, gather these key ingredients:

1. Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation and even cooking.
2. Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor, or use pre-grated for convenience.
3. Breadcrumbs: Opt for plain breadcrumbs, such as panko, for a light, crispy coating.
4. Olive Oil: Brush olive oil on the chicken to help the coating stick and add moisture.
5. Eggs: Beat eggs to dip the chicken, which helps the coating adhere better.
6. Seasonings: Include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the dish’s savory profile.

1. Chicken Breasts: Try chicken thighs for a juicier option, though they were contain higher fat.
2. Parmesan Cheese: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, lower-calorie option without losing the cheesy flavor.
3. Breadcrumbs: Choose whole wheat breadcrumbs for more fiber, or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
4. Olive Oil: Substitute with avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and is rich in healthy fats.
5. Eggs: Use egg whites or a vegan egg substitute to reduce cholesterol intake.
6. Seasonings: Experiment with herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary to add complexity without extra calories.

Preparing Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Prepare Chicken Breasts
   Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and a tender texture.
3. Make Coating Mixture
   Combine 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano. Mix well to ensure all seasonings distribute evenly.
4. Prepare Wet Mixture
   Beat 2 eggs in a shallow dish. These help the coating adhere to the chicken.
5. Coat Chicken Breasts
   Dip a chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then, press it into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet
   Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they’re spaced evenly to promote even cooking.
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil
   Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over each chicken breast to enhance browning and crispiness.
8. Bake Chicken
   Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The crust should be golden brown and crisp.
9. Rest and Serve
   Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist interior.

1. Fresh Grated Parmesan
   Use fresh grated Parmesan for a superior flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
2. Uniform Coating Consistency
   Ensure the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture is well-blended so the seasoning spreads uniformly.
3. Pounding the Chicken
   Pound the chicken uniformly to avoid undercooked or overcooked sections.
4. Avoid Overcrowding
   Arrange chicken breasts with space between them on the baking sheet. This prevents steaming and helps achieve a crispy crust.
5. Oven Thermometer
   Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven reaches the correct temperature for optimal results.
6. Resting Time
   Allow the chicken to rest after baking to keep it juicy and tender. Only serve after a 5-minute resting period.

These steps and tips ensure your Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out flavorful, crispy, and perfectly cooked every time.

Serving Suggestions

Best Side Dishes to Complement the Chicken

Pair Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken with sides that enhance its flavors and provide a balanced meal. Consider these options:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, and green beans.
• Mashed Potatoes: Garlic-infused or creamy varieties.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a light dressing.
• Rice Pilaf: Herb-seasoned or with added vegetables.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned and tender.

These sides offer both nutritional value and complementary textures to the crispy chicken.

Creative Serving Ideas

Enhance your presentation and add variety to your meals with these serving ideas:

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Place the baked chicken on a toasted bun with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
• Chicken Caesar Wrap: Wrap the chicken in a tortilla with Caesar salad ingredients.
• Chicken and Pasta: Serve over fettuccine alfredo or spaghetti with marinara.
• Chicken Salad Bowl: Slice the chicken and top a green salad with your favorite dressing.
• Chicken Tacos: Use soft tortillas and add your choice of toppings like salsa, avocado, and lettuce.

These creative ideas maximize the versatility of Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, making it suitable for various meals.

Nutritional Information

Caloric Content

Each serving of Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken contains approximately 350 calories. Most of these calories come from protein and fat sources. Including this dish in your diet provides a substantial portion of your daily caloric intake, making it suitable for main meals.

Nutritional Benefits and Considerations

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken offers several nutritional benefits. It’s high in protein, with around 30 grams per serving, supporting muscle growth and repair. Additionally, it provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, niacin, and phosphorus. However, mind the fat content, primarily due to the Parmesan cheese and breadcrumb coating. Opt for whole-wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber, and consider pairing the chicken with nutrient-dense sides like steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that’s both tasty and nutritious. By following the preparation tips and pairing it with nutrient-dense sides, you can enjoy a balanced meal that’s rich in protein and essential vitamins. Whether you’re serving it with steamed vegetables or getting creative with a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, this recipe offers versatility and flavor. Remember to consider healthier options like whole-wheat breadcrumbs to boost fiber content. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal with confidence, knowing you’re making a nutritious choice.