If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that won't wreck your diet, look no further than this 1 1/2 servings baked chicken parmesan recipe. Packed with savory flavor and gooey melted cheese, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning taste buds. At 520 calories per serving, you can indulge guilt-free!

This baked chicken parmesan recipe is not only tasty, but also healthier than traditional recipes that are often deep-fried. By baking the chicken, you'll cut down on the amount of fat and calories, while still achieving the same crispy texture and delicious taste. Plus, by making it at home, you'll avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives that you might find in pre-made or restaurant versions.

In this article, we'll provide you with everything you need to know about making a perfect baked chicken parmesan, including tips and tricks for success, serving suggestions, frequently asked questions, and more.

Classic Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Chicken parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish made with breaded chicken cutlets, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese. It's typically served over pasta or with a side of garlic bread. The traditional recipe calls for the chicken to be fried, but we'll show you how to make a healthier version by baking the chicken instead.

Baked Chicken Parmesan: A Healthier Version

This recipe for baked chicken parmesan is a healthier version of the classic dish. By using lean chicken breasts, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and low-fat cheese, you'll cut down on the calories and fat without sacrificing flavor. Plus, by baking the chicken rather than frying it, you'll save even more on fat and calories.

Ingredients needed for Baked Chicken Parmesan

To make this recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan

Here's how to make baked chicken parmesan:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Pound the chicken breasts with a meat mallet until they're even in thickness.
3. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and basil.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the mixture onto the chicken to help it adhere.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake the chicken for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and top each breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfectly Baked Chicken Parmesan

Here are some tips to ensure that your baked chicken parmesan turns out perfectly every time:

• Use chicken breasts that are of similar size and thickness for even cooking.
• Pound the chicken breasts with a meat mallet to ensure even thickness and tenderize the meat.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
• Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken to help it adhere.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the juices to redistribute.

Oven-baked Chicken Parmesan with Panko Breadcrumbs

If you're looking for a variation on the classic baked chicken parmesan recipe, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of whole wheat breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than traditional breadcrumbs, which makes for a crispier and more delicate texture. To make this variation, simply substitute the whole wheat breadcrumbs with panko crumbs in the recipe above.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Chicken Parmesan

There are many ways to serve baked chicken parmesan. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve it over whole wheat pasta for a classic Italian meal.
• Serve it with a side salad for a lighter, healthier option.
• Make it into a sandwich by serving it on a whole wheat bun with lettuce and tomato.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Chicken Parmesan

Here are some frequently asked questions about baked chicken parmesan:

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be longer due to the higher fat content of chicken thighs.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftover baked chicken parmesan for up to three months. To reheat, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and bake it at 350°F until heated through.

Making Ahead and Storing Baked Chicken Parmesan

If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can assemble the dish up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Variation and Modification of the Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

There are many variations and modifications you can make to this recipe to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Use different types of cheese, such as provolone or fontina, for a unique twist.
• Add vegetables, such as spinach or roasted red peppers, for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko crumbs if you're avoiding gluten.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the tomato sauce.