Tomato Parmesan Cheese Chicken
Juicy baked chicken topped with rich tomato sauce and generous Parmesan cheese, perfect for those craving comforting Italian flavors in a quick, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place skinned chicken in a baking dish.
- Add salt, pepper, oregano, and garlic salt to taste on the chicken.
- Cover the chicken with tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of Parmesan cheese over the tomato sauce.
- Cover the dish and bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, salt, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before baking. If you're out of Parmesan cheese, a mix of mozzarella and a hard cheese like Pecorino Romano works well. Adjust the tomato sauce amount based on personal preference for sauciness. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Parmesan Cheese Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. For a more substantial meal, serve it over pasta, such as angel hair pasta with quick tomato sauce, to soak up the delicious sauce. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving can add a nice touch of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Parmesan Cheese Chicken contains roughly 14 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it completely before cooking for even baking. If you're short on time, submerge the chicken in cold water for about an hour or defrost it in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or even a homemade quick tomato sauce can work. You can blend canned tomatoes with garlic and herbs for a fresher taste. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, and the cheese should be bubbly and lightly browned.
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).