Chicken Parmesan Bake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
If you’re a fan of classic Italian flavors, then you’re going to love this Chicken Parmesan Bake recipe. This dish takes all the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan and turns them into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with family and friends. With crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this Chicken Parmesan Bake is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 cup Italian-style bread crumbs (or more panko if preferred)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Oil (such as olive oil or vegetable oil) for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, beat the eggs. In another shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, Italian-style bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast half into the beaten eggs, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden and crispy.
- Add the Sauce and Cheese: Remove the baking dish from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast half. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Finish Baking: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the Chicken Parmesan Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Breading Options: If you prefer a lighter breading, you can use all panko breadcrumbs instead of a combination of panko and Italian-style breadcrumbs. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
- Spice it Up: For added flavor, consider seasoning the breadcrumb mixture with Italian seasoning, dried basil, or dried oregano. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Customize the Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce for this recipe, or make your own from scratch. You can also add extras like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or chopped spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a low-carb coating.
- Use a low-carb marinara sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version substitutions above, focusing on reducing carbs and using low-carb alternatives where possible.
- Serve the Chicken Parmesan Bake with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete low-carb meal.
In conclusion, this Chicken Parmesan Bake is a simple yet delicious twist on a classic Italian dish. With crispy breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy dinner idea, this recipe is sure to please. So why not give it a try and enjoy the flavors of chicken parmesan in a convenient casserole form?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Parmesan Bake up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.