Easy Parmesan Chicken: A Crunchy Delight
Welcome to another delicious and simple recipe from Love With Recipes! Today, weโre diving into a classic that is sure to become a family favorite: Easy Parmesan Chicken. This recipe, shared with me by a dear friend from a cherished church cookbook, is not only incredibly straightforward but also wonderfully tasty. The use of Ritz crackers instead of traditional bread crumbs gives this dish a delightful crunch, making it a standout meal that is perfect for both busy weeknights and casual get-togethers. Letโs get started!
Ingredients
To make this easy and scrumptious Parmesan Chicken, youโll need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions
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Preheat Your Oven: Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). This will ensure itโs ready to bake your chicken to perfection.
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Prepare the Chicken: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and dip each piece into the melted butter. Ensure the chicken is well-coated to help the Ritz cracker crumbs adhere better.
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Coat with Cracker Crumbs: After dipping the chicken in butter, roll each piece in crushed Ritz crackers. Make sure to cover all sides generously with the crumbs for that irresistible crunch.
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Arrange in Pan: Place the coated chicken breasts in a 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish. This size is ideal for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
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Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan cheese over the top of each chicken breast. The cheese will melt and form a golden, savory crust during baking.
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Bake the Chicken: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes. The cooking time can vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken breasts and your ovenโs performance. The chicken is done when the juices run clear, and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Nutritional Information
For those keeping an eye on nutritional details, hereโs a quick look at what you can expect per serving (based on four servings):
- Calories: 387.1
- Fat: 28.1 grams
- Saturated Fat: 17.1 grams
- Cholesterol: 140.4 milligrams
- Sodium: 431.3 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 0.5 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0.1 grams
- Protein: 32.3 grams
Tips for Success
- Cracker Crumbs: For an even crunchier texture, consider pulsing the Ritz crackers in a food processor until finely crushed. This ensures they stick better to the chicken.
- Butter and Margarine: The combination of butter and margarine adds flavor and helps achieve a crispy coating. However, if you prefer, you can use all butter for a richer taste.
- Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Parmesan Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a crisp salad, some roasted vegetables, or a fluffy bed of rice for a complete meal thatโs both satisfying and nutritious. Whether youโre hosting a dinner party or preparing a weeknight meal for the family, this dish is sure to impress.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful recipe with your loved ones, and stay tuned for more easy and delicious recipes from Love With Recipes. Happy cooking! ๐๐๐ง
