Parmesan Chicken Bake(Heart Healthy)
A flavorful baked chicken dish featuring Parmesan cheese, herbs, and a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a heart-healthy, satisfying meal for family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine dry bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, parsley flakes, salt, lemon pepper, and thyme in a bowl.
- Spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Place the split, skinned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread margarine over the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the dry bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken breasts to reduce baking time. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture can enhance the flavor. Make sure to check the doneness of the chicken using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
This Parmesan Chicken Bake pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside whole grain rice or quinoa. You can also complement the dish with a light lemon vinaigrette to add brightness. Consider exploring other chicken recipes like Chicken Tortellini Casserole for variety in your meal planning.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Bake(Heart Healthy) contains roughly 459 calories, with 22g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best outcome. The cooking time may need slight adjustments, typically requiring an additional 10-15 minutes depending on the thickness.
What can I add to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment by adding spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for a kick. You can also mix in some finely chopped garlic or onion powder. Fresh herbs like oregano or basil can also provide a lovely aromatic touch to the breadcrumb mixture.
Is there a way to make this dish lower in calories?
To reduce calories, consider using less margarine or substituting it with olive oil spray. Using a smaller amount of cheese or opting for a reduced-fat version can also help. Pairing the dish with a larger portion of vegetables can create a filling meal while keeping the calorie count lower.
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).