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Chicken Parmesan Bake
Introduction
Chicken Parmesan Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, a crispy breadcrumb coating, rich marinara sauce, and melted cheese into one satisfying meal.
It’s a simplified version of the classic chicken parmesan, baked instead of fried, making it lighter yet just as delicious. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is hearty, cheesy, and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise (or 4 thin-cut chicken breasts)
1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 egg, beaten
1 tablespoon milk
2 cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish with olive oil. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan.
garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with milk until smooth. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture.
then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so it adheres. Arrange the coated chicken in the prepared baking dish and drizzle with a little olive oil to help crisp the coating.
Bake until the chicken is golden and cooked through, then remove from the oven. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken.
sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and return to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
How to Make
Making Chicken Parmesan Bake is simple and doesn’t require much hands-on time. The key step is coating the chicken properly so it develops a crispy outer layer while baking.
Once the chicken is cooked, topping it with marinara sauce and cheese ensures every bite has a balance of flavor and texture.
Baking the chicken with the sauce and cheese also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a homestyle meal that feels both hearty and comforting.
Variations
You can customize this dish to suit your taste. Try using different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a richer flavor, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
For a lighter version, use whole wheat breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch. If you prefer a vegetarian twist.
replace the chicken with breaded eggplant slices for a classic eggplant parmesan bake. You can also add fresh basil or parsley before serving to give it a fresh, fragrant finish.
Tips
For best results, use thin chicken breasts so they cook evenly and stay juicy. Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after baking so the coating remains crisp before adding the sauce and cheese.
If you want a crispier texture, broil the dish for a couple of minutes at the end to give the cheese a golden, bubbly finish.
Pairing this bake with pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Chicken Parmesan Bake is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a beloved Italian classic without the fuss of frying.
With its crispy coating, savory sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table.
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