Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan is a lighter twist on the classic Italian favorite, using crispy pork rind coating instead of breadcrumbs. It’s simple to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels special.

Three pieces of chicken parmesan sit on crinkled parchment paper over a white marbled surface. Each piece has a golden, crispy breaded chicken base, topped with a layer of bright red marinara sauce. On top of the sauce is a thick, melted white mozzarella cheese layer, slightly browned in spots. The dish is finished with small, fresh green basil leaves sprinkled evenly across the top and around the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 4 thin sliced chicken breasts
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 2 cups crushed pork rinds
  • ½ cup powdered Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon minced basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spray a large cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
  2. Step 2: Pour the beaten eggs into a shallow dish for dipping.
  3. Step 3: In a separate shallow dish, combine crushed pork rinds, powdered Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing well.
  4. Step 4: Dip each chicken breast first into the egg, then press into the pork rind mixture so the coating sticks firmly.
  5. Step 5: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Step 6: Remove the chicken from the oven and spread marinara sauce evenly over each piece.
  7. Step 7: Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese on top of the sauced chicken.
  8. Step 8: Return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Step 9: Garnish with minced basil or parsley before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.

Tips & Variations

  • For an extra crispy crust, lightly spray the coated chicken with olive oil or cooking spray before baking.
  • You can substitute basil with fresh oregano or thyme to vary the herbal flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pork rind mixture.
  • This recipe works well with thicker chicken breasts; just adjust baking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.

Storage

Store leftover chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through to keep the crust crisp, or microwave briefly but note the crust may soften.

How to Serve

The image shows three pieces of breaded chicken cutlets with three visible layers: a golden, crispy crust on the bottom layer, a thick bright red tomato sauce in the middle, and melted white mozzarella cheese on top. The chicken is garnished with small green basil pieces scattered over the cheese and sauce. The cutlets are placed on a textured parchment paper that rests on a white marbled surface. The photo is taken up close, showing details like the crispy edges and melted cheese stretch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of pork rinds?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs work well if you’re not avoiding carbs. Just substitute equal amounts for the pork rinds and proceed as directed.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to be safe and juicy.

Print
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Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan Recipe


  • Author: Elara
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A simple and delicious low-carb baked chicken parmesan recipe featuring a crispy pork rind and Parmesan crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a quick family dinner or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 thin sliced chicken breasts
  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 2 cups crushed pork rinds
  • ½ cup powdered Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

Topping:

  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon minced basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a large cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare egg wash: Crack the eggs into a shallow dish and beat them until smooth. This will be used to help the coating stick to the chicken.
  3. Mix coating: In a separate shallow dish, combine the crushed pork rinds, powdered Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until evenly mixed.
  4. Coat chicken: Dip each thin chicken breast first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then press each piece into the pork rind mixture, pressing firmly so the coating adheres well to the chicken.
  5. Bake chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Add sauce and cheese: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spread marinara sauce evenly over each piece, then sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese on top.
  7. Final baking: Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle minced basil or parsley over the top for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use thin sliced chicken breasts for even cooking and a tender bite.
  • Ensure the chicken reaches safe internal temperatures: 160°F before adding toppings and 165°F after baking with cheese.
  • For a spicier variation, add some red pepper flakes to the pork rind coating mix.
  • You can substitute fresh basil or parsley for dried if fresh is not available, adjusting quantity accordingly.
  • This recipe is low-carb and gluten-free due to the pork rind coating instead of breadcrumbs.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: baked chicken parmesan, low carb chicken parmesan, pork rind crust, gluten-free chicken parmesan, easy chicken dinner, baked chicken recipe

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