Tired Of Greasy Chicken Parmesan? Learn How To Make It Unbreaded And Healthy With This Easy Recipe! #cleaneating #healthyfood

Chicken parmesan is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese. However, the traditional breaded version can be heavy and high in calories. This unbreaded chicken parmesan recipe offers a healthier and equally delicious alternative without sacrificing any of the flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
• Dredge the chicken in flour.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
• Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

3. Make the Marinara Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Assemble the Parmesan:

• Spread the marinara sauce over the chicken.
• Top with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

5. Bake:

• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

• Serve the unbreaded chicken parmesan immediately with your favorite pasta or side dishes.

Tips for Success

• Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts thin to ensure even cooking.
• If you don’t have a meat mallet, you can place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a rolling pin to flatten them.
• For a crispy crust, ensure the chicken is dry before dredging it in flour.
• Use a high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry and tough.

Variations

• Chicken Parmesan with Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the chicken and the marinara sauce.
• Chicken Parmesan with Mushrooms: Sauté some mushrooms and add them to the marinara sauce before spreading it over the chicken.
• Chicken Parmesan with Roasted Vegetables: Roast some vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, and top the chicken parmesan with them.

Health Benefits

Compared to traditional breaded chicken parmesan, this unbreaded version is:

• Lower in calories
• Lower in fat
• Higher in protein
• Rich in vitamins and minerals from the tomatoes and basil

Key Points: Unbreaded Chicken Parmesan for a Healthier Craving

Indulge in the classic flavors of chicken parmesan without the guilt. This unbreaded version is a crispy, healthier alternative that satisfies your cravings without compromising on taste. Experiment with the variations and enjoy this delicious dish any day of the week.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They will take a little longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make the marinara sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the marinara sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What can I serve with unbreaded chicken parmesan?
A: You can serve unbreaded chicken parmesan with your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad.