Bake And Breaded Chicken

Prep: 15 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Italian

Juicy baked chicken legs and thighs coated with Parmesan and Italian bread crumbs deliver crispy, flavorful comfort perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2-3 lb. chicken legs and thighs
  • 1 8 oz. Zesty Italian Salad Dressing
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 cups Italian flavored bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. Mix the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian flavored bread crumbs in a shallow dish.
  2. Dip each chicken piece in Zesty Italian Salad Dressing, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Let stand for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Place the coated chicken on a foil-lined cookie sheet.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the Zesty Italian Salad Dressing overnight. If you're short on time, you can substitute the Italian flavored bread crumbs with regular bread crumbs mixed with Italian seasoning. Ensure the chicken is dry before coating to help the breadcrumbs adhere better.

Serving Suggestions

This baked and breaded chicken pairs beautifully with sides like a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. It also goes well with pasta dishes such as Angel Hair Pasta With Chicken. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Moe'S Rice or a creamy risotto for a delicious Italian-inspired dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain the crispy coating while warming the meat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bake And Breaded Chicken contains roughly 190 calories, with 9g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 824mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

190 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.8g 18% DV
Total Fat 11.6g 15% DV
Carbs 12.5g 5% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 5.7g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 823.8mg 36% DV
Potassium 186mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 10.7mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 128.2mg 10% DV
Iron 0.9mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken legs and thighs, but the texture may differ slightly. Skin adds moisture and flavor, so consider brining the chicken beforehand to keep it juicy. Adjust the baking time as skinless chicken may cook faster.

What if I don't have Italian flavored bread crumbs?

If you don't have Italian flavored bread crumbs, you can easily make your own by mixing regular bread crumbs with dried Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme. This will give your chicken a similar flavor profile that complements the zest of the Italian dressing.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked chicken. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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