Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan

Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan is a delicious and healthier alternative to the classic fried version. It features breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.

Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan offers a satisfying blend of flavors while being lower in fat. This dish involves lightly breaded chicken cutlets baked to a golden perfection. Topped with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, it captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking.

Prep time	Cooking time	Total time	Servings
15 minutes	25 minutes	40 minutes	Serves 4

Ingredients Needed For Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan

Preparing this dish requires several specific ingredients to ensure it turns out perfect. Below is a detailed list of the ingredients needed for Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan.

For The Chicken Cutlets

To prepare the chicken cutlets, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Ensure they are fresh and of good quality.
• Salt and pepper – These basic seasonings help to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour – This will be used to coat the chicken before breading.
• 2 large eggs – Beat them in a bowl; they will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.

For The Breading

The breading adds a crispy texture to the chicken cutlets. Here’s what you need for the breading mixture:

• 2 cups of breadcrumbs – You can use store-bought or make your own from stale bread.
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – It adds a rich, nutty flavor to the breading.
• 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning – This blend typically includes basil, oregano, and rosemary.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – Adds an extra layer of flavor.

For The Sauce

The sauce is a crucial component of Chicken Cutlet Parmesan. It brings moisture and tanginess to the dish. Here’s what you need:

• 2 cups of marinara sauce – Opt for a high-quality store-bought option or make your own.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil – Used to sauté the garlic before adding it to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil – Adds an aromatic touch to the sauce.

For Topping

The topping is what makes this dish truly indulgent. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully over the chicken cutlets.
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor.
• Fresh basil leaves – These are optional but add a nice fresh touch and beautiful garnish.

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Preparation Of Chicken Cutlets

The key to a perfect Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan lies in the preparation of the chicken cutlets. Properly tenderizing and seasoning the chicken ensures it stays juicy and flavorful, while the breading process adds a delightful crunch.

Step 1: Tenderize And Season The Chicken

First, gather your ingredients and tools. You’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Plastic wrap or a large plastic bag
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning

Place a chicken breast between two layers of plastic wrap or inside a plastic bag. Use the flat side of a meat mallet or a rolling pin to gently pound the chicken breast until it is about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

Next, season both sides of each chicken breast generously. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for consistent flavor. Here’s a simple table for reference:

Seasoning	Amount per Chicken Breast
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1/4 teaspoon
Italian Seasoning	1/2 teaspoon

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Step 2: Bread The Chicken

Prepare three shallow dishes for the breading process:

1. All-purpose flour
2. Beaten eggs
3. Breadcrumb mixture

The breadcrumb mixture should consist of:

• 1 cup of breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

First, dredge each seasoned chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure all sides are covered.

For an extra crispy texture, gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Here’s a quick summary:

Step	Action
1	Dredge in flour
2	Dip in beaten eggs
3	Press into breadcrumb mixture

Repeat the breading process for all chicken cutlets. They are now ready to be baked to crispy perfection.

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Making The Parmesan Sauce

One of the key elements that elevates this dish is the Parmesan sauce. This sauce is not only flavorful but also adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the chicken cutlets. Let’s dive into the process of making this delicious sauce.

Step 3: Prepare The Marinara Sauce

Creating a delicious marinara sauce is crucial for Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan. This sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor that balances the dish. Follow these steps:

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
• Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes.
• Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for seasoning.
• Stir in dried basil and oregano.
• Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture. Adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, add a teaspoon of sugar.

The marinara sauce should have a thick consistency, ideal for coating the chicken cutlets. Here’s a quick reference table for the ingredients:

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive Oil	2 tbsp
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Crushed Tomatoes	1 can (28 oz)
Salt	1 tsp
Black Pepper	1/2 tsp
Dried Basil	1 tsp
Dried Oregano	1 tsp
Sugar (optional)	1 tsp

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Step 4: Grate And Prepare The Cheese

Cheese is a star ingredient in Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan. Using fresh cheese enhances the flavor and texture. Follow these steps to prepare the cheese:

1. Start with a block of Parmesan cheese. Avoid pre-grated cheese for better flavor.
2. Use a fine grater to grate the Parmesan. You need about 1 cup of grated cheese.
3. Next, grate mozzarella cheese. This cheese adds a gooey texture. You need about 1 cup of mozzarella.

Here’s a quick reference table for the cheese quantities:

Cheese	Quantity
Parmesan Cheese	1 cup (grated)
Mozzarella Cheese	1 cup (grated)

After grating, set the cheese aside. It will be used to top the chicken cutlets. The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella creates a perfect balance of flavor and meltiness.

By preparing the cheese and marinara sauce with care, you ensure that your Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan will be bursting with flavor.

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Assembling The Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan

Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that combines crispy chicken cutlets with rich tomato sauce and gooey melted cheese. Now, let’s dive into the exciting part: Assembling the Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan.

Step 5: Layering The Ingredients

Layering the ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Start with a well-greased baking dish to prevent sticking. Here’s how to layer your ingredients for the best results:

• First Layer: Tomato Sauce

Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom. This keeps the chicken moist.

• Second Layer: Chicken Cutlets

Arrange the baked chicken cutlets over the sauce. Ensure they cover the entire surface evenly.

• Third Layer: More Tomato Sauce

Add another generous layer of tomato sauce. This infuses the cutlets with rich flavor.

• Fourth Layer: Mozzarella Cheese

Sprinkle a thick layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. This creates a gooey, melty topping.

• Fifth Layer: Parmesan Cheese

Finish with a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a sharp, tangy flavor.

Here’s a quick table to summarize:

Layer	Ingredient
1	Tomato Sauce
2	Chicken Cutlets
3	Tomato Sauce
4	Mozzarella Cheese
5	Parmesan Cheese

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Step 6: Baking Instructions

After layering, the next step is baking the assembled dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking. Place the baking dish in the oven and set a timer for 20-25 minutes. The goal is to melt the cheese and heat everything through.

While baking, check occasionally to avoid overcooking. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover with foil. This prevents burning while allowing the dish to cook thoroughly.

Once the timer goes off, remove the dish from the oven. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

Here’s a quick checklist for baking:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place dish in oven for 20-25 minutes.
3. Check for bubbly, golden-brown cheese.
4. Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan ready to impress!

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Serving And Presentation

The right garnishes and side dishes can elevate your baked chicken cutlet parmesan to restaurant-quality status.

Step 7: Garnishing And Serving Suggestions

Garnishing is an essential step that adds a touch of elegance to your Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan. Here are some simple yet effective ways to garnish and serve your dish:

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Place a few fresh basil leaves on top of the chicken cutlets. The green adds a pop of color and a fresh aroma.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some extra grated parmesan cheese over the top. It adds both texture and flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A light sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat and make the dish visually appealing.
• Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the chicken for a zesty kick and a beautiful yellow hue.

When it comes to serving, presentation is key. Consider these serving suggestions:

1. Use a White Plate: A white plate makes the colors of the dish stand out, making it more inviting.
2. Drizzle with Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can add shine and enhance flavors.
3. Serve with a Side of Marinara Sauce: A small bowl of marinara sauce on the side allows guests to add more sauce as they like.

By following these garnishing and serving suggestions, you can make your Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan look as good as it tastes.

Step 8: Side Dish Pairings

Choosing the right side dishes can turn your meal into a feast. Here are some classic and delicious pairings for Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan:

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting and hearty side.

If you prefer, you can also pair it with pasta. Here are some pasta options:

Pasta Type	Preparation
Spaghetti	Cook al dente and toss with olive oil and garlic.
Fettuccine	Prepare with a light Alfredo sauce.
Penne	Mix with marinara sauce and a bit of parmesan.

These side dish pairings will complete your meal, making your Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan a hit at any dinner table.

Nutritional Information Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan

Knowing the nutritional information can help you make informed choices and enjoy this meal guilt-free.

Approximate Calorie Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan

One of the best things about Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan is its calorie count. A single serving typically contains around 350-400 calories. This makes it a great option for those watching their caloric intake.

Here’s a breakdown of the calorie content:

• Chicken Breast (4 oz): Approximately 120 calories
• Bread Crumbs (1/4 cup): Approximately 100 calories
• Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Approximately 110 calories
• Marinara Sauce (1/2 cup): Approximately 60 calories

A typical meal might include a side of roasted stuffed bell peppers, which can add nutritional value. Here’s a quick look at their calorie content:

Ingredient	Calories
Bell Pepper (1 medium)	25
Quinoa (1/2 cup cooked)	111
Black Beans (1/4 cup)	60
Corn (1/4 cup)	30

Breakdown Of Macronutrients (protein, Fat, Carbs)

Understanding the macronutrient breakdown of Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan can help you balance your diet. Each serving provides a good mix of protein, fat, and carbs.

Here’s a detailed look:

• Protein: The chicken breast is the primary source of protein. Each serving provides about 30 grams of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Fat: Most of the fat comes from the Parmesan cheese and bread crumbs. Expect around 15 grams of fat per serving. This includes healthy fats that are good for your heart.
• Carbohydrates: The bread crumbs and marinara sauce contribute to the carbohydrate content. Each serving contains about 25 grams of carbs. These carbs provide energy and help you stay full longer.

Here’s a quick summary in table form:

Macronutrient	Amount per Serving
Protein	30 grams
Fat	15 grams
Carbohydrates	25 grams

This balanced macronutrient profile makes Baked Chicken Cutlet Parmesan a nutritious and satisfying meal. Enjoy it with a side of veggies for a complete dinner.

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