Chicken A La Maria
Chicken A La Maria features tender chicken breasts coated with seasoned bread crumbs and Parmesan, baked to golden perfection, complemented by green onions and a rich milk sauce. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese; reserve half for topping.
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry.
- Dip chicken breasts in the crumb mixture to coat lightly.
- Place coated chicken breasts in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt margarine or butter and stir in sliced green onions.
- Add milk to the saucepan and heat through.
- Pour the milk mixture over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle reserved bread crumb and cheese mixture on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in herbs like thyme or oregano with the bread crumb mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can work as a substitute. Ensure the chicken is not crowded in the baking dish for even cooking; you can use a larger dish if needed. For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the milk mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken A La Maria with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Potato And Fried Chicken, adding a hearty touch. A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish well. For a complete dinner, consider garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chicken A La Maria can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the topping. You can also microwave it, but the texture may not be as appealing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken A La Maria contains roughly 412 calories, with 16g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's essential to thaw them completely before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Adjust the baking time if the chicken is still slightly cold.
What other toppings can I use instead of bread crumbs?
If you're looking for alternatives to bread crumbs, crushed crackers or cornflakes can provide a crunchy topping. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts on top for added texture and flavor, enhancing the dish's richness.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this at the thickest part of the breast. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking will also help retain its juices.
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).