Name: Quick Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish); Olive oil spray; Salt and pepper to taste

Quick Chicken Parmesan is a healthy twist on a classic Italian-American favorite. Juicy chicken breasts are lightly breaded, baked to perfection, and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. This guilt-free version satisfies cravings while being quick and easy for weeknight dinners. Serve with a side salad or whole-grain pasta.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Pound the chicken evenly to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs for extra fiber and nutrients.
Opt for fresh mozzarella for creamier, meltier cheese.
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a golden, bubbly top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This recipe is the perfect balance of flavor, simplicity, and nutrition. It delivers all the rich, cheesy goodness of traditional Chicken Parmesan but with fewer calories and less grease. The quick bake method ensures a crispy coating without frying, and the use of marinara sauce adds a burst of tangy tomato flavor. Whether you’re hosting friends or feeding the family, this dish pleases everyone without spending hours in the kitchen.

Yield: Serves 4

Quick Chicken Parmesan

Quick Chicken Parmesan combines crispy baked chicken with marinara and melted cheese for a healthy, satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Olive oil spray
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pound the chicken breasts to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Bread the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast in the eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to ensure a crispy finish. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Broil for a Golden Finish: For extra crispiness, switch to broil mode for 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve and Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or whole-grain pasta.

Notes

Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and prevents drying out.
Don't skip spraying olive oil; it’s the secret to achieving that golden, crispy crust without frying.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness without cutting into the chicken.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 601Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 221mgSodium 913mgCarbohydrates 46gFiber 7gSugar 4gProtein 58g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredient Notes:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for whole-wheat breadcrumbs for a fiber boost or use panko for extra crunch.
Marinara Sauce: Choose a high-quality, low-sugar brand or make your own for the freshest flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, but shredded mozzarella is a convenient alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth to the breading. Use freshly grated for the best flavor.
Eggs: Help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Lightly whisk them for an even coating.
Olive Oil Spray: A light spray keeps the coating crispy without excess fat.

Variations and Substitutions:

Gluten-Free Option: Swap breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Low-Carb Option: Skip the breading and coat the chicken in almond flour and Parmesan for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant for a delicious Eggplant Parmesan.
Cheese Variations: Try provolone or a mix of mozzarella and fontina for a unique flavor twist.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara or the breading mix for a hint of heat.

Storage Options:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freeze: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tip: To maintain crispiness, reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10–15 minutes rather than using a microwave.