Cathy'S Fancy Baked Chicken
Cathy's Fancy Baked Chicken features tender, breaded chicken breasts coated in Parmesan and garlic salt, baked to perfection for a flavorful, family-friendly main course.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip chicken breasts in melted margarine and cheese mixture, then roll in bread crumbs, patting crumbs on chicken.
- Sprinkle pepper lightly on top.
- Place in greased shallow baking dish and drizzle with any extra margarine.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour without covering or turning.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the bread crumb mixture. If you're short on Parmesan, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can work in a pinch, though it will change the flavor profile. To ensure the chicken stays moist, you can marinate it in the melted margarine for 30 minutes before coating it.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cathy’s Fancy Baked Chicken alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Strawberry-Chicken Spinach Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or a side of pasta to soak up any leftover juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain the chicken's moisture and keeps the breading crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cathy'S Fancy Baked Chicken contains roughly 622 calories, with 23g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if the thighs are larger, as they may require a few more minutes to cook through.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer butter, you can substitute it for margarine in equal amounts. For a healthier option, olive oil can also be used; just keep in mind it might alter the flavor slightly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the bread crumbs the night before. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake it straight from the fridge the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).