Parmesan Chicken Bake
A flavorful baked chicken dish featuring a crispy Parmesan crust, perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering. The combination of bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a savory coating that enhances tender chicken breasts, offering a satisfying meal with a hint of Italian-inspired goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley flakes, salt, lemon pepper, and thyme.
- Dip each chicken breast half into melted margarine or spray with cooking spray, then coat with the bread crumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crunchier topping, consider adding crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to the mixture. If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, grated Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute. Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can elevate the flavor profile. Ensure chicken is pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, serve with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus. Drizzle with a light lemon vinaigrette for added brightness. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Cheddar Baked Orzo With Pepperoni, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan Chicken Bake 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 until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but this may result in a less crispy coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Bake contains roughly 497 calories, with 21g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2093mg per serving (91% 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 skinless chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They will still absorb the flavors from the breading and margarine, resulting in a deliciously juicy chicken bake. Just ensure they are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for margarine?
You can substitute melted butter or olive oil for margarine in this recipe. Both options will add a rich flavor and help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. If you're looking for a healthier option, a light cooking spray can also be used.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving helps retain moisture.
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).