Microwave Italian-Seasoned Chicken
Juicy Italian-seasoned chicken breasts coated with flavorful bread crumbs and Parmesan, paired with tender broccoli or mixed vegetables, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large strainer, rinse vegetables with warm water to thaw slightly.
- Place vegetables in a 1 3/4-quart microwave-safe casserole.
- Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry.
- Fold chicken breasts in half; secure with wooden toothpicks.
- Brush chicken on all sides with mayonnaise.
- Combine bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Roll chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, coating generously.
- Arrange chicken pieces with the thickest portions toward the edge of the casserole.
- Sprinkle chicken with paprika and any remaining crumbs.
- Cover and microwave on 100% power for 10 to 12 minutes or until chicken is tender and no longer pink.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian herbs like oregano to the mayonnaise before brushing on the chicken. If you don't have Italian-seasoned bread crumbs, you can use regular bread crumbs mixed with dried Italian herbs. For a crunchy texture, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after microwaving. This recipe is a quick and delicious option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian-Seasoned Chicken with a side of warm garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Risotto With Seafood or Chicken Cacciatore With Rigatoni for a heartier option. For added flavor, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can elevate the dish further.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken and vegetables in the microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently, until warmed through. This ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Italian-Seasoned Chicken contains roughly 841 calories, with 12g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 843mg per serving (37% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just make sure to steam or blanch them briefly before adding to the casserole to ensure they cook evenly with the chicken. Fresh broccoli or bell peppers work well and will add a vibrant crunch to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkling some cayenne pepper on the chicken before cooking. You can also serve it with a spicy marinara sauce for dipping for an extra kick.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used instead of mayonnaise. Both will provide moisture and creaminess while adding a tangy flavor that complements the chicken nicely.
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).