Parmesan Oven Chicken
Oven-baked chicken breasts coated with Parmesan, bread crumbs, and herbs offer a crispy, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, and pepper in a bowl.
- Dip each chicken breast in Italian salad dressing to coat.
- Dredge the coated chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking pan coated with non-stick spray or Pam.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or herbs de Provence to the breadcrumb mixture. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; you can pound them slightly for better results. If you have leftovers, try shredding the chicken for use in salads or sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside pasta tossed with marinara sauce or garlic butter. You can also enjoy it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan Oven 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 (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parmesan Oven Chicken contains roughly 447 calories, with 16g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg 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, you can definitely use chicken thighs for this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful, although they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What can I use instead of Italian salad dressing?
If you don’t have Italian salad dressing, a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs can serve as a great substitute. You can also use a simple marinade made from lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to flavor the chicken before coating it.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Parmesan Oven Chicken gluten-free, substitute regular bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Italian dressing, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).