Say goodbye to breading: learn the simple trick for making unbreaded chicken parmesan that will impress your taste buds

Indulge in the delectable flavors of chicken parmesan without the guilt! This unbreaded version offers a healthier alternative to the traditional breaded dish, while still delivering the same irresistible taste and texture. Follow these simple steps to master the art of unbreaded chicken parmesan.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup Italian bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts thin to an even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Create the Crust: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs. Dredge the chicken breasts in the mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
3. Pan-Fry the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Assemble the Parmesan: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Broil or Bake: Place the chicken breasts under a broiler or in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Broil or bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Variations:

• Add Veggies: Include chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Use Different Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses such as provolone, cheddar, or feta.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick.

Tips:

• Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts evenly.
• Season the chicken generously to enhance its flavor.
• Cook the chicken over medium heat to prevent burning.
• Broil or bake the chicken to melt the cheese perfectly.

Benefits of Unbreaded Chicken Parmesan:

• Lower in Calories and Fat: Without the breading, this dish is significantly lower in calories and fat than the traditional version.
• Higher in Protein: The unbreaded chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Versatile: Unbreaded chicken parmesan can be paired with various side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Spaghetti: Serve the chicken parmesan over a bed of al dente spaghetti.
• Garlic Bread: Complement the flavors with some warm, toasted garlic bread.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken with roasted broccoli, carrots, or potatoes for a healthy and balanced meal.

Wrap Up: A Guilt-Free Treat

Unbreaded chicken parmesan is a delicious and nutritious meal that satisfies your craving for Italian comfort food without compromising your health. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy the flavors of traditional chicken parmesan in a healthier, guilt-free way!

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through.

Q: How do I make the marinara sauce from scratch?
A: Heat some olive oil in a saucepan and sauté chopped onions, garlic, and herbs. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until thickened.

Q: Can I freeze unbreaded chicken parmesan?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked or cooked chicken breasts. To freeze uncooked chicken, follow the recipe instructions up to step 3. Wrap the chicken in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze cooked chicken, assemble the parmesan as directed and freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken and bake or broil until heated through.