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Healthy Chicken Parmesan

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Healthy Chicken Parmesan is a lighter twist on the classic comfort dish, featuring crispy baked or air-fried chicken breasts topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sodium or homemade)
  • 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
  3. In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place coated chicken on the baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
  7. Remove from oven, spoon marinara over each chicken piece, and top with mozzarella cheese.
  8. Return to oven and bake for 5 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use crushed whole-grain crackers or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Add red pepper flakes to the breading for a spicy kick.
  • Swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless thighs if desired.
  • Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb meal.
  • Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.

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