Healthy Baked Chicken
Juicy baked chicken breasts coated in flavorful herbs and Parmesan, paired with creamy yogurt sauce for a healthy, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a plastic bag, combine Italian bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, dry minced onion, garlic powder, salt (if using), oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry.
- Coat each chicken breast with plain yogurt.
- Roll the yogurt-coated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in a greased baking pan.
- Optional: Drizzle melted margarine over the chicken.
- Bake uncovered in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 50 to 55 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve with rice and Lemon Yogurt Sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crispy texture, consider broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of baking. If you don't have Italian bread crumbs, you can use panko breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning as a substitute. Feel free to adjust the garlic powder based on your preference for garlic flavor; fresh minced garlic can also be used. Remember to keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This healthy baked chicken pairs beautifully with rice and a refreshing Lemon Yogurt Sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with Sour Cream Scalloped Potatoes or Hooper'S Easy Cornbread Stuffing to complement the flavors of the chicken.
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. You can also microwave individual pieces for 1-2 minutes, but this may result in a less crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Healthy Baked Chicken contains roughly 812 calories, with 7g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value), calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2550mg per serving (111% 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 breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts if you prefer. Just note that the skin will add extra fat and calories. If you want to keep it healthy, consider removing the skin before serving, as the breading will still provide a crunchy texture.
What can I substitute for plain yogurt?
If you don't have plain yogurt, you can use Greek yogurt for a thicker consistency or sour cream as an alternative. Both options will maintain the moisture and tangy flavor in the recipe, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coated chicken breasts in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing them in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).