Crispy parmesan-crusted chicken, fresh from the oven

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

Baked parmesan chicken

This baked parmesan chicken is an easy, delicious and absolutely perfect midweek meal. It is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Each serving has a calorie count of just 516 calories, making it not only tasty but also healthy.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs / 900 g) – about 200 calories each
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 50 g) – 216 calories
• 1 cup Panko bread crumbs (about 50 g) – 110 calories
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (about 2.5 g) – 0 calories
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (about 0.5 g) – 1 calorie
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (about 1.3 g) – 10 calories
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (about 0.5 g) – 3 calories
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (about 0.5 g) – 2 calories
• 2 large eggs – 156 calories
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about 30 ml) – 238 calories

Total calories per portion – 516 calories

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and lightly grease a baking sheet with some of the olive oil.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and paprika.
3. In another dish, beat the eggs.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and then dredge it in the cheese and bread crumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet and drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden.
7. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful.

Enjoy your dish and remember to share your cooking experience in the comments section, I’d love to hear about it!

Making a healthier baked parmesan chicken

If you are keen on creating a healthier version of baked parmesan chicken, consider substituting regular breadcrumbs with whole-grain breadcrumbs and use lean chicken breasts.

This way, you improve the fiber content in your meal without compromising on taste.

Opt for reduced-fat parmigiana cheese and don’t forget to spice up your chicken with herbes de Provence or other herbs to enhance flavor without adding calories.

Storing your baked parmesan chicken

Baked parmesan chicken can comfortably be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure you cool your chicken thoroughly before refrigerating it in an air-tight container.

For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving your baked parmesan chicken

For a well-rounded meal, serve your baked parmesan chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a leafy green salad.

Whole grain pasta or brown rice can also complement the chicken to provide a more substantial meal.

When it comes to drinks, a light-bodied white wine like a Pinot Grigio or a crisp Rosé can add a refreshing touch to your meal.