Parmesan Chicken Breast
Parmesan Chicken Breast offers a crispy, flavorful coating with a cheesy kick, perfect for a quick family dinner or entertaining guests. The combination of Parmesan, herbs, and paprika creates a savory crust that pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a 15 x 10-inch baking dish sprayed with nonstick spray, dip each chicken breast half in melted Parkay spread to coat.
- In a small bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, oregano, parsley, paprika, and salt.
- Coat each dipped chicken piece with the cheese mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until tender and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice and garlic before coating it. If you don't have Parkay stick spread, melted butter or olive oil can be used as alternatives. To enhance the cheesy crust, mix in some shredded mozzarella or use fresh grated Parmesan instead of the dried variety. Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Parmesan chicken breast alongside a fresh salad or over a bed of creamy angel cornbread for a delightful meal. A side of garlic green beans or steamed broccoli complements the dish nicely. For a special touch, drizzle with a balsamic reduction or serve with a lemon wedge to brighten the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it retains its crispy texture. Avoid using the microwave as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Breast contains roughly 309 calories, with 13g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (211% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), and calcium (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 43g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the cheese mixture up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, covered. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the bread crumbs?
If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute the bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or ground almonds. For a healthier option, try using oats or panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the outside should be golden brown to indicate it’s done.
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).