Chicken Parmesan Pasta
Chicken Parmesan Pasta combines juicy breaded chicken with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, offering a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners. The crispy chicken paired with savory spaghetti creates a comforting dish that satisfies everyone with its cheesy, herb-infused goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg whites, then coat with Italian seasoned dry breadcrumbs, turning to evenly coat both sides.
- Place the coated chicken in a greased 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Top the baked chicken with 2 cups of spaghetti sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle with dried oregano leaves.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the mozzarella cheese is melted.
- Serve over hot cooked pasta tossed with the remaining 1 cup of heated spaghetti sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian herbs before breading. If you want to lighten the dish, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute. You can also swap out the mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese like part-skim mozzarella. For a twist, add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the pasta, similar to the approach in Pearl Street'S Chicken And Broccoli.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Parmesan Pasta is best served immediately over a bed of al dente spaghetti. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully, making it a great choice for dinner gatherings. For more delicious pasta ideas, browse more Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Parmesan Pasta contains roughly 1030 calories, with 56g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (459% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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 chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier flavor. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may require a few extra minutes to cook through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for spaghetti sauce?
You can use marinara or a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer. For a creamier version, try a white sauce or Alfredo. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain flavor balance.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then bake it just before serving. Assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate, then bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).