Description
Enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken Parmesan with a healthier twist. This Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan features juicy chicken breasts topped with gooey cheese, flavorful tomato sauce, and a golden crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy, delicious, and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Breasts:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil cooking spray (as needed)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or low sodium)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Sugar substitute (optional, to balance acidity)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded fat-free mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated reduced-fat Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a baking dish with olive oil cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season and Sear the Chicken
- Lightly spray both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil cooking spray.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 teaspoon olive oil.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Add a sugar substitute if needed to balance the acidity.
- Assemble the Dish
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the seared chicken breasts over the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each chicken breast.
- Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the cheese.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Chicken
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use high-quality tomato sauce and fresh herbs for the best flavor.
- Searing the chicken before baking locks in juices and adds depth.
- Customize by adding breadcrumbs or panko for a crunchy topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian