Crispy Herbed Chicken (Or Fish)(Baked, Not Fried)
Crispy herbed chicken with a flavorful cornmeal coating offers a crunchy texture and savory herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Combine cornmeal, flour, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Dip chicken pieces into skim milk, then coat thoroughly with the cornmeal mixture.
- Place coated chicken in a baking pan and brush with melted margarine.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, you can add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the cornmeal mixture. If you want to substitute the chicken, fish like tilapia or cod works well. To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Also, feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavor variations.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crispy herbed chicken alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Nutty Raisin Stuffing for a delicious combination. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a side of Lo-Cal Chicken Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover crispy herbed chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain the crispiness of the coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Herbed Chicken (Or Fish)(Baked, Not Fried) contains roughly 501 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg 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 skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the skin may not get as crispy as the coating. For a healthier option, skinless chicken is recommended as it allows the seasoning and cornmeal coating to shine through.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the cornmeal mixture. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level. Alternatively, serve with a spicy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken by coating it with the cornmeal mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. When ready to bake, simply brush with margarine and follow the baking instructions.
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).