Welcome to our flavorful and easy-to-make Parmesan Chicken Bake recipe! If you’re a fan of chicken Parmesan casserole, then this dish is a must-try. With a crispy parmesan crust and a savory marinara sauce, it brings all the delicious flavors of Italian cuisine straight to your dinner table. Prepare to indulge in a cheesy and flavorful chicken bake that is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Key Takeaways:
- Transform traditional chicken Parmesan into a delectable and easy-to-make oven-baked parmesan chicken dish.
- Enjoy the crispy and flavorful parmesan crust, gooey melted cheese, and tangy marinara sauce.
- This recipe provides a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken Parmesan by baking the chicken instead.
- Pair your Parmesan Chicken Bake with a side of pasta or salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Experience all the flavors of a classic cheesy chicken Parmesan in one delightful dish.
Ingredients and Preparation
To make this Parmesan Chicken Bake, you will need the following ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Skinless, boneless chicken breast halves | 4 |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
| Fresh basil | 1/4 cup, chopped |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic croutons | 1 cup |
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
- Coat a casserole dish with olive oil.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the dish.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Sprinkle the garlic and pepper mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken breasts.
- Top the chicken with fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and the garlic croutons.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
When it comes to preparing the delicious Parmesan Chicken Bake, you’ll need a total of about 50 minutes, which includes a 15-minute prep time and a 35-minute cook time. This means that you can have a satisfying homemade dinner on the table in under an hour.
Once your Parmesan Chicken Bake is done cooking, it’s best to serve it hot and fresh. The dish is flavorful and cheesy, making it a hearty main course that can be enjoyed on its own. However, if you’re looking to make it a complete meal, you can pair it with a side of pasta or a fresh garden salad. The combination of the chicken bake with a pasta dish creates a well-rounded and satisfying dinner experience.
Now you’re ready to sit down and savor the deliciousness of this Parmesan Chicken Bake. Whether you choose to enjoy it on its own or with a side dish, its comforting flavors and cheesy goodness are sure to leave you completely satisfied.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a side of pasta
- Enjoy alongside a fresh garden salad
Get creative with your serving suggestions by experimenting with different sides and accompaniments. The versatility of this dish allows you to tailor it to your preferences and add your own personal touch.
Nutritional Information
Knowing the nutritional information of a dish can help you make informed choices about your meals. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content in each serving of the Parmesan Chicken Bake:
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Vitamins | Minerals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 477 | 22g | 28g | 40g | Vitamin C | Calcium, Iron |
Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to check the nutritional labels on the products you’re using for the most accurate information.
Flavor and Texture Profile
The Parmesan Chicken Bake offers a savory and cheesy flavor profile with a crispy texture from the parmesan crust. The marinara sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet element, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt and create a gooey topping. The garlic croutons provide a crunchy and flavorful element that complements the chicken and sauce.
When you take a bite of this delicious dish, you’ll experience a burst of flavors. The savory parmesan crust adds a crispy and slightly salty note to the tender chicken. As you delve deeper, the tangy marinara sauce provides a delightful contrast, balancing the richness of the cheeses. The melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses create a gooey and stringy texture that envelops the chicken, enhancing its flavor and creaminess.
The garlic croutons, on the other hand, offer a satisfying crunch and an additional layer of flavor. They soak up the sauce, becoming slightly softened while still providing a delightful texture contrast to the tender chicken. The combination of all these elements creates a truly mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving more.
Healthier Baked Version
This Parmesan Chicken Bake recipe offers a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried chicken Parmesan. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you reduce the amount of oil used and create a lighter dish. The crispy parmesan crust adds a satisfying texture without the need for excessive breading. It’s a delicious and guilt-free option for those looking to enjoy the flavors of chicken Parmesan in a healthier way.
When it comes to chicken Parmesan, the go-to cooking method is often frying. However, frying can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats to the dish. Baking the chicken is a healthier alternative that still results in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
By baking the chicken, you can achieve a crispy crust without the need for excessive breading. The parmesan cheese in the crust provides a rich and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Plus, it adds an extra layer of indulgence without the guilt.
Baking the chicken also allows you to control the amount of oil used in the cooking process. By using just a small amount of olive oil to coat the chicken, you can reduce the overall fat content of the dish. This makes baked chicken Parmesan a lighter option for those watching their calorie intake or following a healthier eating plan.
Not only does baking the chicken make it a healthier alternative, but it also saves you time and effort. Instead of standing over a hot frying pan, you can simply pop the chicken in the oven and let it bake to perfection. This gives you more time to relax or prepare other components of the meal.
So, if you’re looking for a healthier, lighter version of the classic chicken Parmesan, give this baked chicken Parmesan recipe a try. It offers all the flavor and crispy crust you love, without the excess oil and calories. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delicious twist on the classic chicken Parmesan dish. By using a crispy parmesan crust and baking the chicken instead of frying, this recipe offers a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. The combination of the gooey melted cheese, savory marinara sauce, and Italian seasonings creates a mouthwatering dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or entertaining guests, the Parmesan Chicken Bake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients, and can be prepared in under an hour. The flavorful and cheesy nature of this dish makes it a comforting and satisfying choice for any occasion.
So why not give the Parmesan Chicken Bake a try? It’s a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that will impress your taste buds and bring a taste of Italy to your table. Whether you’re a fan of classic chicken Parmesan or looking for a healthier twist, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delicious Parmesan Chicken Bake!
FAQ
What is Parmesan Chicken Bake?
Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delicious twist on classic comfort food. It’s a flavorful chicken dish with a crispy parmesan crust and a savory marinara sauce.
What are the ingredients needed for Parmesan Chicken Bake?
The ingredients for Parmesan Chicken Bake include skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, olive oil, garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, marinara sauce, fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic croutons.
How do I prepare Parmesan Chicken Bake?
To prepare Parmesan Chicken Bake, you need to preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and coat a casserole dish with olive oil. Arrange the chicken breasts in the dish and top them with marinara sauce, basil, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and croutons. Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
How long does it take to cook Parmesan Chicken Bake?
Parmesan Chicken Bake takes about 50 minutes to prepare, with a 15-minute prep time and a 35-minute cook time.
What can I serve with Parmesan Chicken Bake?
Parmesan Chicken Bake can be served as is or paired with a side of pasta or salad for a complete meal.
What is the nutritional information of Parmesan Chicken Bake?
Parmesan Chicken Bake contains approximately 477 calories, 22g of fat, 28g of carbs, and 40g of protein per serving. It also provides essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
What is the flavor profile of Parmesan Chicken Bake?
Parmesan Chicken Bake offers a savory and cheesy flavor profile with a crispy texture from the parmesan crust. The marinara sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet element, while the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses melt and create a gooey topping. The garlic croutons provide a crunchy and flavorful element that complements the chicken and sauce.
How is Parmesan Chicken Bake a healthier version of chicken Parmesan?
Parmesan Chicken Bake is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken Parmesan. By baking the chicken instead of frying it, you reduce the amount of oil used and create a lighter dish. The crispy parmesan crust adds a satisfying texture without the need for excessive breading.
