Crunchy Chicken Parmesan
Crispy baked chicken parmesan coated with crushed onion rings and Parmesan, offering a savory crunch and rich flavor. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed onion rings, grated Parmesan, and paprika in a bowl.
- Dip chicken breasts in beaten egg with a little milk, then coat with the onion ring mixture.
- Place coated chicken in a pan and drizzle with melted oleo.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of crushed onion rings, or mix in some crushed cornflakes. You can use any type of cheese, like mozzarella or a blend, if Parmesan isn't available. Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated by pressing them into the mixture firmly. Adjust the paprika to your taste for more or less heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crunchy Chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta or a fresh salad, like Broccoli And Shrimp Salad, for a complete meal. A simple marinara sauce drizzled on top adds flavor, while a sprinkle of fresh basil can enhance its presentation. Pair it with garlic bread for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunchy Chicken Parmesan contains roughly 94 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 best to thaw them completely before preparing the dish. This ensures more even cooking and better coating adherence. Ideally, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What can I use instead of crushed onion rings?
If you don't have crushed onion rings, consider using crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs mixed with onion powder for a similar texture and flavor. Panko breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings also work well to create a crunchy coating.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more flavor and moisture. Swap out half of the Parmesan for nutritional yeast to reduce fat while still adding a cheesy flavor. Consider baking it with a light spray of olive oil instead of melted oleo.
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).