Parsley-Parmesan Baked Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts coated in Parmesan and bread crumbs, baked to golden perfection with parsley and paprika, perfect for a flavorful family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour Italian salad dressing into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish.
- Add chicken breasts and coat well with the dressing.
- Cover and refrigerate for 4 hours, occasionally spooning dressing over the chicken.
- Drain the chicken and reserve the dressing.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg with water.
- In a plastic bag, combine Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, snipped parsley, black pepper, and paprika.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then shake in the crumb mixture to coat.
- Return the coated chicken to the baking dish and spoon the reserved dressing over it.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until the chicken is tender and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat Italian dressing and substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water). If you don't have fine dry bread crumbs, crushed crackers or panko can be a great alternative. Ensure the chicken is fully coated for maximum flavor and crispiness. For added zest, consider sprinkling some lemon zest into the crumb mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad to complement the flavors. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Jambaloga for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed alongside a light pasta dish. A sprinkle of additional parsley before serving adds a nice touch, and a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers 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 15-20 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain the chicken's moisture and crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Parsley-Parmesan Baked Chicken contains roughly 301 calories, with 26g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. At about 301 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 bone-in chicken instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken pieces, but cooking time will vary. Bone-in pieces may require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the fine dry bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that the Italian salad dressing is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the dressing the night before and coat it with the crumbs just before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a convenient dinner option on a busy day.
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).