Parmesan Chicken(Microwave)
A quick and flavorful microwave Parmesan chicken with crispy breading, perfect for a satisfying meal that's easy to prepare and full of savory Parmesan and herb notes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skin from chicken pieces or breasts.
- Place margarine in a small bowl and microwave on high for 30 seconds until melted.
- Mix together Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, parsley flakes, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roll chicken in melted margarine, then in the bread crumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange chicken in a 2-quart casserole dish with meaty ends on the outer edges.
- Sprinkle paprika over the top of the chicken pieces.
- Cover the dish with waxed paper.
- Microwave on high for 12 to 14 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, try toasting the bread crumbs lightly before mixing them with the cheese and spices. You can substitute the margarine with olive oil or butter for a richer flavor. If you don't have parsley flakes, fresh chopped parsley or Italian seasoning can work well. Adjust the garlic powder according to your taste; fresh garlic can be used for a more intense flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Parmesan chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Bread And Celery Stuffing for a comforting family dinner. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon on top just before serving for a fresh zing that enhances 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 the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through, ensuring it remains covered to prevent it from drying out. For best results, you can also reheat in an oven at 350°F until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Chicken(Microwave) contains roughly 145 calories, with 16g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 695mg per serving (30% 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, chicken thighs work great for this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just ensure they are cooked through, as the cooking time might vary slightly depending on the size of the thighs.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be good substitutes. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast mixed with breadcrumbs for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just replace the fine bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This will ensure that you can enjoy this dish while adhering to a gluten-free diet.
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).