Parmesan Chicken Breasts
Parmesan Chicken Breasts are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying family dinner. Coated with Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and herbs, then baked to tender perfection, this dish offers a delightful combination of cheesy and savory notes that appeal to all ages and complement various side dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Spray a 15 x 10 x 1-inch baking pan with no-stick cooking spray.
- Dip the chicken breasts in melted margarine, then coat with the combined Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, oregano, parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding minced garlic or lemon zest to the bread crumb mixture. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano can serve as a good substitute. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure to check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer—165°F is the safe internal temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Parmesan Chicken Breasts with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They also pair well with rice or pasta, making them a versatile option for any dinner. For a delightful contrast, consider serving with a tangy dipping sauce or a side of Diet Vegetable Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Parmesan Chicken Breasts can be stored 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 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the chicken rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken Breasts contains roughly 361 calories, with 11g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (207% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), and calcium (126% 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 use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's best to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Breasts?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes, a light green salad, or steamed broccoli. For a heartier option, try pairing it with Chicken And Sausage Gumbo for a comforting meal.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To lighten this dish, you can use olive oil instead of margarine and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also opt for whole grain bread crumbs for added fiber. Serving it alongside a fresh vegetable medley or a side of Hash Brown Casserole (Low-Fat Version) can enhance the healthiness of the meal.
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).