Parmesan Chicken Bake(Lo-Cal)
A light, flavorful baked chicken dish featuring Parmesan and seasoned bread crumbs, perfect for a healthy family dinner with crispy, tender results.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, lemon pepper, and thyme in a shallow dish.
- Dip chicken breasts into the crumb mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Melt margarine in a baking dish in the oven.
- Add coated chicken breasts to the baking dish, turning them to coat both sides with margarine.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until chicken is cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. This dish is a great low-cal option that pairs well with a light salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Parmesan Chicken Bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a refreshing green salad for a balanced meal. Quinoa or brown rice can also complement this dish well, providing a hearty base. For a comforting touch, consider pairing it with a creamy casserole like Chicken Creamy Casserole for a delicious family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the chicken to cool completely, then place it 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 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Bake(Lo-Cal) contains roughly 56 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1292mg per serving (56% 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 work perfectly for this Parmesan Chicken Bake. They will absorb the flavors well and still remain moist when baked properly. Just ensure you monitor the cooking time, as skinless breasts may cook slightly faster.
What can I do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese on hand, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast, which offers a similar savory flavor without the cheese.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
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).