Fancy Baked Chicken
Juicy baked chicken breasts coated with Parmesan, garlic, and crispy breadcrumbs create a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, granulated garlic, and salt in a bowl; mix well.
- Dip each chicken breast in the butter mixture, reserving the remaining mixture.
- Coat the dipped chicken breasts with soft breadcrumbs.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Spoon the remaining butter mixture on top of the chicken.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the butter mixture. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute soft breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken breasts, reducing the baking time by half. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Serving Suggestions
This Fancy Baked Chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside pasta, such as in Pasta And Beans (White)(One Pound Is Never Enough For The Rodio'S). A light white wine offers a nice complement to the dish's rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fancy Baked Chicken contains roughly 1013 calories, with 12g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1946mg per serving (85% 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 for a juicier texture. Adjust the baking time to about 45-50 minutes, checking that they are thoroughly cooked. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly from the original recipe.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and place it in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).