Baked Chicken Parmesan

Introduction
Explore the delicious flavors of Baked Chicken Parmesan, a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken with crispy breadcrumbs, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese. This comforting meal is sure to please the whole family with its hearty and satisfying taste.
Why Make This Recipe
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a great choice for a comforting dinner that is both simple to prepare and full of flavor. With crispy chicken, gooey melted cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any night of the week.
How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley (chopped)
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
- 3 large chicken breasts (halved to make 6 fillets)
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup fresh parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 tsp. onion powder
- 1/2 cup light virgin olive oil
- 12 oz. mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 4 Tbsp. fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 large white onion (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 15 oz. can tomato puree
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. dried Italian herbs
- 1 tsp. granulated sugar
Directions:
- Heat oil in a pot, fry onions, add garlic, and stir in the sauce ingredients. Simmer until thickened.
- Dip chicken in breadcrumbs, coat evenly, and fry in a skillet until golden.
- Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with sauce, top with mozzarella, parmesan, and bake until cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle with chopped basil before serving.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan
Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan hot, fresh out of the oven. Pair it with a side of pasta, a simple salad, or some garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
How to Store Baked Chicken Parmesan
Store any leftover Baked Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.
Tips to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan
- Ensure the chicken fillets are evenly coated with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Use high-quality Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Adjust the seasoning of the tomato sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Variation
For a lighter version of Baked Chicken Parmesan, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Simply bread the chicken as usual, place on a baking sheet, and bake in a preheated oven until cooked through.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe, but adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Can I make the tomato sauce ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the dish.
- What can I substitute for fresh basil? If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil, parsley, or oregano as a substitute in the dish.
Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of Baked Chicken Parmesan with this simple and delicious recipe!