Weight Watchers Parmesan Fried Chicken
Light and flavorful, this Parmesan Fried Chicken features a crispy coating with Italian-inspired herbs, perfect for a healthy dinner option or meal prep for the week.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, pepper, and parsley flakes in a bowl.
- Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Roll chicken pieces first in the Italian dressing, then in the crumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated chicken in a baking dish sprayed with cooking spray (Pam).
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes or until tender and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra crunch, consider using panko bread crumbs instead of regular ones. You can also substitute the low calorie Italian dressing with a homemade blend of vinegar, oil, and Italian herbs. If you're looking to cut down on carbs, try using almond flour mixed with Italian seasoning instead of bread crumbs. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious Parmesan Fried Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cream Of Butternut Squash And Leek Soup for a comforting dinner. You can also add some whole grain pasta and a light sauce for a heartier option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Parmesan Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy coating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Weight Watchers Parmesan Fried Chicken contains roughly 244 calories, with 11g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 739mg per serving (32% 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 other types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly, so choose a cheese that you enjoy and that complements the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice cereal or gluten-free panko. Just make sure to check the labels of your Italian dressing as well to ensure it is gluten-free.
How can I make the chicken more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, marinate the chicken in the Italian dressing for a few hours or overnight before breading. Adding herbs like thyme or oregano to the crumb mixture can also elevate the taste. Experiment with spices that you enjoy to make it your own.
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).