Description
This Healthy Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a lighter take on the classic Italian favorite by baking the chicken instead of frying. Tender, pounded chicken breasts are coated with a flavorful almond flour cracker crumb and Parmesan mixture, then baked to perfection. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this dish is perfect served over pasta for a satisfying and health-conscious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Breading
- 3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and pounded to ½-inch thickness
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup finely crushed cracker crumbs or breadcrumbs (such as almond flour crackers)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 8 oz log of mozzarella cheese, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Bread Chicken: In one bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly. In another bowl, combine the crushed cracker crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Dip each butterflied and pounded chicken breast into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly with the crumb mixture to ensure an even, flavorful crust.
- Bake: Arrange the breaded chicken breasts carefully on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until the chicken starts to cook through and the coating is firm.
- Top and Finish: Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece, then place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese begins to melt. Finally, broil the chicken for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Serve hot over your favorite pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute almond flour crackers with regular panko or bread crumbs if preferred.
- Make sure to keep an eye on the chicken during broiling as the cheese can burn quickly.
- Butterflying and pounding chicken breasts ensures even cooking and tender texture.
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium marinara sauce and reduce added salt in the seasoning mix.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.