Are you craving the flavors of chicken Parmesan but looking for a simpler way to enjoy this classic Italian dish? Look no further than our Chicken Parmesan Bake! This easy-to-make recipe takes all the delicious flavors of traditional chicken Parmesan and bakes them into one delicious casserole. With layers of tender chicken, marinara sauce, gooey cheese, and flavorful breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. Join us as we dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe, including ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Assemble the Chicken Parmesan Bake
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix until well combined.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
3. Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Once baked, remove the Chicken Parmesan Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: Add extra seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor. Consider adding Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken breasts with slices of eggplant or zucchini. Follow the same layering instructions but adjust the baking time as needed.
- Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of traditional breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Chicken Parmesan Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap or foil and bake as directed.
Q: Is there a keto-friendly version of this recipe? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version of this dish by omitting the breadcrumbs and using a low-carb marinara sauce. You can also use a combination of almond flour and grated Parmesan cheese as a breadcrumb substitute.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Omit the breadcrumbs altogether or use a keto-friendly breadcrumb substitute such as crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Low-Carb Variation: Use a low-carb marinara sauce and skip the breadcrumbs entirely. You can also reduce the amount of marinara sauce used to further lower the carb content.
In conclusion, our Chicken Parmesan Bake is a delicious and easy-to-make twist on the classic Italian dish. With its layers of tender chicken, marinara sauce, melted cheese, and flavorful breadcrumbs, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out today and enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen!
