If you’re looking for a comforting yet healthy meal, look no further than this Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan. It’s a delicious twist on the classic dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends while keeping your health goals in check. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan
This dish combines perfectly baked chicken breasts with a crispy topping of breadcrumbs and cheese, all smothered in marinara sauce. It’s not only flavorful but also nutritious! Follow these simple steps to bring this dish to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness (about 1 inch thick). This helps them cook evenly.
- In a shallow dish, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture, stirring to combine. This will help create a crispy texture when baked.
- Coat each chicken breast with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it gently to adhere. Ensure both sides are well-coated.
- In a baking dish, place the breaded chicken breasts and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and spoon the marinara sauce over the top of each piece. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan is not only a great meal for weekday dinners but also perfect for meal prep. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Enjoy this satisfying dish that brings all the comfort without the compromise!
