Welcome friend. Today, I’m excited to share a delicious and nutritious recipe for 20-Minute Healthy Chicken Parmesan.
Imagine tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese—perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that won’t derail your health goals.
Why I’m Sharing This 20-Minute Healthy Chicken Parmesan Recipe
I’m sharing this recipe for those who love the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan but want a lighter, healthier version that can be whipped up in no time.
With simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy this guilt-free twist on a beloved classic.
What Makes This Recipe the Best?
The 20-Minute Healthy Chicken Parmesan recipe puts a healthy spin on traditional chicken Parmesan by using baked chicken breasts instead of frying.
This reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor, making it a perfect option for those looking to enjoy a lighter meal without compromising on taste.
Ingredients Needed
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup (120g) whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Alternative Ingredients
Here are some ingredients you can use in place of the ones above:
| Ingredient | Variation |
| Whole wheat breadcrumbs | Panko breadcrumbs |
| Parmesan cheese | Pecorino Romano |
| Marinara sauce | Homemade tomato sauce |
| Mozzarella cheese | Provolone cheese |
Step-By-Step Guide
1. Prepare Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
2. Coat Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Bake Chicken: Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
4. Top with Sauce and Cheese: Remove chicken from oven and spread marinara sauce over each breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Broil: Turn oven to broil and return chicken to the oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish: Remove chicken from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Expert Tips
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher, more authentic taste.
- Serve with a side of whole wheat spaghetti or a mixed green salad for a complete meal.
Utensils Needed
- Meat mallet or rolling pin for pounding chicken
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Shallow dish for coating chicken
- Serving plates and utensils
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that have been asked many times about this 20-Minute Healthy Chicken Parmesan recipe.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier, more delicious dish. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make it gluten-free. Simply substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for the whole wheat breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free-friendly.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes you can. Leftover chicken Parmesan can be frozen for future meals. Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or fontina for a unique twist on the classic dish.
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Also, check out my other recipes that are sure to make you go cray-cray with joy 😹.
You will find the recipe in full below 👇👇👇.
20-Minute Healthy Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup 120g whole wheat breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup 30g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup 240ml marinara sauce
- 1 cup 120g shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- In a shallow dish, combine whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Remove chicken from oven and spread marinara sauce over each breast. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Turn oven to broil and return chicken to the oven. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove chicken from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of dried basil or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher, more authentic taste.
- Serve with a side of whole wheat spaghetti or a mixed green salad for a complete meal.
