Description
This lighter version of classic Chicken Parmesan features oven-baked, breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for a healthier twist on a traditional favorite without frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 oz each, sliced in half lengthwise to make 8 pieces)
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter (melted, or olive oil)
Toppings and Sauce
- 3/4 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Cooking spray
- Basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Lightly spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, melt the butter (or use olive oil) to brush on the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Lightly brush each chicken piece with the melted butter, then dip it into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coat. Place the coated chicken pieces onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Chicken: Lightly spray a little more cooking spray over the crumb-coated chicken pieces. Bake them in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce over each piece, then top each with 1 1/2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Finish Baking: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the chicken before serving for a fresh, colorful touch.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Using part-skim mozzarella helps reduce fat without compromising flavor.
- Brushing the chicken with melted butter or olive oil before coating helps the crumbs stick and crisp up in the oven.
- Make sure to slice chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Serve with a side of pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 248 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 447 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9.5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 98.5 mg
