Easy Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies Recipe

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both hearty and healthy, look no further than this Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe. It’s a fantastic blend of juicy chicken breasts baked to perfection, topped with melted cheese and savory marinara sauce, paired with vibrant roasted vegetables all in one pan. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also simple enough for any weeknight, bringing a perfect mix of comfort and nutrition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks together, saving you time and cleanup.
• Balanced Nutrition: Protein from the chicken combined with fiber-rich veggies make it a wholesome dinner.
• Flavor Kick: The classic Parmesan and tomato combo adds rich, comforting flavors.
• Customizable Veggies: Easily swap or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly: Melty cheese and familiar ingredients make it a hit with picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe shines because of its simple, quality ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a key role, from the crispy chicken coating to the colorful veggies roasting alongside.

• Chicken Breasts: Skinless and boneless for easy cooking and a tender bite.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds a savory tomato base that complements the cheese and chicken.
• Shredded Mozzarella: Melts perfectly on top to create that gooey, cheesy finish.
• Grated Parmesan: Offers a salty, nutty flavor essential to classic Chicken Parmesan.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy, golden topping for satisfying crunch.
• Mixed Vegetables: Think bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli for color, texture, and nutrition.
• Olive Oil: Helps veggies roast to perfection and adds healthy fats.
• Garlic & Italian Seasoning: Infuse the dish with a fragrant, herbaceous undertone.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

Variations for Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Feel free to make this recipe your own! The Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies dish is wonderfully adaptable no matter the season, appetite, or dietary restrictions.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a crispy crust.
• Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and add extra cheese or use almond flour instead.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinara sauce.
• Vegetarian Style: Substitute chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in chopped spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand.

How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Veggies

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Chop your choice of fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces, drizzling them with olive oil and minced garlic for roasting.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken breast into the mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well, creating a crunchy layer once baked.

Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the coated chicken breasts in a large baking dish or sheet with the seasoned vegetables spread evenly around the chicken. This allows everything to cook simultaneously and the flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Add Marinara and Cheese

Spoon a generous amount of marinara sauce over each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan if you like. The sauce keeps the chicken moist while the cheese bubbles into irresistible goodness.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Juicy

Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C), the veggies are tender, and the cheese is golden and bubbly. For extra browning, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

• Even Cooking: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
• Veggie Variety: Use a mix of soft and hearty vegetables to balance textures.
• Rest After Baking: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes post-baking to lock in juices.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley just before serving for fragrant freshness.
• Quality Cheese: Using freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and tastes less processed.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Garnishes

Finish this dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan for a beautiful, aromatic touch that elevates the flavors.

Side Dishes

While this recipe is a complete meal, pairing it with fresh garlic bread, a simple side salad, or cooked pasta can round out the dinner beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve directly from the baking dish family-style to keep things easy and homey, or plate it individually with colorful veggies fanned out for a restaurant-inspired look that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for a quick reheat.

Freezing

Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies freeze well. Portion the dish into airtight freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain the crispy chicken coating and evenly warm the veggies. Microwaving is quicker but may soften the crust.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully and tend to be juicier, but you may need to adjust cooking time slightly since thighs are thicker.

What if I don’t have marinara sauce on hand?

You can substitute with canned tomato sauce or a simple mix of crushed tomatoes and Italian herbs; just add seasoning to keep the flavor kick.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Absolutely. Replace mozzarella and Parmesan with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use seasoned gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed, making it suitable for lactose intolerance.

Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?

Yes, simply skip the breadcrumbs or swap with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly crispy crust.

How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness and not overbaking will help keep it juicy; also, resting after baking allows juices to redistribute.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe is a go-to for anyone craving a comforting yet wholesome meal. Its adaptability, flavor-packed layers, and simple prep make it a kitchen hero that you’ll want to revisit time and again. Give it a try, and watch it become your new favorite weeknight dinner that satisfies everyone at the table!

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