Introduction
Welcome to a comforting classic that never fails to impress! Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich marinara sauce and melty cheese. It’s a meal that’s not just easy to prepare, but also offers a burst of Italian flavor that will have everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds. Perfect for family dinners or an intimate gathering with friends, this recipe has your back when you’re looking to serve something wholesome and hearty. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), allowing it to reach the perfect roasting temperature.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs until they’re well blended and slightly frothy.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a fragrant breading.
- Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is richly coated for optimal flavor.
- Next, dredge each breast in the almond flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it adheres nicely.
- Arrange the beautifully coated chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet, ready for their flavorful journey.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and boasting a golden brown exterior.
- Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each piece of chicken with a generous layer of marinara sauce, followed by an even sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce for a quick option or make your own for a personalized touch.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, consider broiling the chicken for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
One of the secrets to achieving crispy chicken without frying is the double coating method used here. Dipping the chicken in egg followed by a seasoned flour mixture ensures that the outside becomes crispy while the inside remains juicy. Baking, rather than frying, not only makes this dish healthier but allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the spices and sauce, resulting in a wonderfully balanced dish.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken up to the baking step and then refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for almond flour?
If desired, you can substitute almond flour with traditional breadcrumbs or panko for a different texture, though this will modify the recipe’s dietary profile.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines convenience with amazing flavor, perfect for any occasion. With its gorgeous layers of cheese and tantalizing marinara, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night in or serving it to guests, this recipe brings warmth to every table. Enjoy every mouthful of this Italian classic, and happy cooking!