Skinny Chicken Parmesan

The first time I made Skinny Chicken Parmesan, I was trying to impress my friends with a guilt-free version of a classic favorite. We had just come back from a long hike, and I wanted to serve something hearty yet light. As I prepped the chicken, I could already envision their delight. The golden crust, the bubbling melted cheese, and the fresh marinara sauce all made my mouth water. This dish is not just about the flavor, but also about the memories we create around the table. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.

Main Ingredients for Skinny Chicken Parmesan

When it comes to making Skinny Chicken Parmesan, the choice of ingredients is key to achieving that homemade taste. Each component works beautifully together to create a satisfying and flavorful dish. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken, which is lean and high in protein. The mozzarella cheese adds creaminess, while the marinara sauce brings a burst of tomato flavor. With a few simple spices and fresh ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal.

• 4 chicken breasts halves or 4 chicken breasts pounded thin: These are the main protein source, providing a lean and flavorful base for the dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This classic cheese melts perfectly and adds that gooey texture we all crave in a parmesan dish.
• Olive oil: Used for cooking and adding richness to the chicken. It’s a healthy fat that elevates the dish.
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar: Helps tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon each of dried basil, garlic powder, and onion powder: These spices infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors.
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes: A must for the marinara sauce, providing sweetness and depth.
• 3-4 garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings robust flavor to the marinara.
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs: For that extra crunch, topped on the chicken before broiling.
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Used to toast the breadcrumbs, creating a crispy topping.

Recipe Directions for Skinny Chicken Parmesan

Preparing Skinny Chicken Parmesan is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to do it step by step. Trust me, once you start, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a dish that feels fancy but is simple enough for any night of the week.

1. Begin by whisking together all the marinade ingredients: the olive oil, cider vinegar, and spices in a freezer-sized plastic bag. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor, so I often prepare this step the night before.
2. When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to broil while you prepare the sauce.
3. In a blender, combine the crushed tomatoes, garlic, dried basil, and any other desired spices. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. While the sauce is simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry gently with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear.
5. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet, cooking undisturbed for about 3 to 5 minutes on one side until it’s nicely browned. You want a beautiful golden color here.
6. After browning, flip the chicken over and cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the thickness. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
7. Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the marinara sauce over the top. Add about ¼ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese to each piece of chicken, followed by the panko bread crumbs.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven. Broil it for just a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
9. When it comes out, the chicken should be beautifully golden and cheesy. Serve it with a hearty portion of marinara sauce over your favorite pasta. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Skinny Chicken Parmesan!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to customize your Skinny Chicken Parmesan, here are some ideas to switch it up! These tips can help you create various versions of this dish, making it suitable for any palate.

• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven to keep it crispy.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
• Vegetable boost: Add spinach or zucchini to the marinara sauce for extra nutrients.
• Cheese options: Experiment with different cheeses, like fontina or gouda, for a unique flavor.

How to Serve Skinny Chicken Parmesan

Serving Skinny Chicken Parmesan is almost as enjoyable as making it! Here are some thoughtful ways to present this dish:

• Over pasta: Serve it over whole grain spaghetti or zoodles for a lighter twist.
• With a salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• For special occasions: This dish is excellent for family gatherings or casual dinner parties.
• Lunch or dinner: It makes a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner, bringing comfort on any day.
• Seasonal vegetables: Consider serving with seasonal roasted vegetables to enhance the meal.
• Garnish: Top with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Skinny Chicken Parmesan is a delightful dish that manages to be both comforting and healthy. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a classic without the guilt. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share it with family and friends. You’ll love the flavors and the memories you create around the table.

Skinny Chicken Parmesan

The ultimate comfort food, Skinny Chicken Parmesan combines crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and a rich marinara sauce. This easy weeknight dinner satisfies your cravings without the guilt! Make it tonight for a delicious meal everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Blender
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Peeler
• Saucepan

Ingredients

  

• 4 pieces chicken breasts halves or pounded thin
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
• ¼ small yellow onion roughly chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic peeled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ¼ cup water
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

 

• Begin by whisking together all the marinade ingredients: the olive oil, cider vinegar, and spices in a freezer-sized plastic bag. This will help infuse the chicken with flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor, so I often prepare this step the night before.
• When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to broil while you prepare the sauce.
• In a blender, combine the crushed tomatoes, garlic, dried basil, and any other desired spices. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and simmer over low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• While the sauce is simmering, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry gently with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear.
• Carefully place the chicken in the skillet, cooking undisturbed for about 3 to 5 minutes on one side until it’s nicely browned. You want a beautiful golden color here.
• After browning, flip the chicken over and cover the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, depending on the thickness. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the marinara sauce over the top. Add about ¼ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese to each piece of chicken, followed by the panko bread crumbs.
• Transfer the skillet to the oven. Broil it for just a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
• When it comes out, the chicken should be beautifully golden and cheesy. Serve it with a hearty portion of marinara sauce over your favorite pasta. Enjoy every bite of your delicious Skinny Chicken Parmesan!

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven to keep it crispy.
• Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
• Tip 4: Add spinach or zucchini to the marinara sauce for extra nutrients.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different cheeses, like fontina or gouda, for a unique flavor.

Keyword Easy Chicken Recipes, healthy chicken parmesan, Italian Comfort Food, light chicken dinner

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.