Parmesan Baked Chicken Breasts
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
20 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
2 servings
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Calories
515 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Parmesan Baked Chicken Breasts
Description
This recipe starts by coating skinless, boneless chicken breasts in a paste-like marinade combining olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. The marinade clings to the breasts, infusing them with bright citrus and savory spices. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is evenly layered on top, adding a rich, nutty crust once baked.
Baked at 400°F (207°C) for 20 to 30 minutes, the chicken cooks through while the cheese forms a golden topping. Using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures proper doneness without drying out the breasts. Serving with lemon wedges allows an additional fresh burst of acidity to complement the richness.
The recipe advises against using pre-grated Parmesan in a can, recommending freshly grated cheese for better flavor and texture. This dish pairs well with sides that can soak up the flavorful juices, making it an accessible main course.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. (500g) chicken breast skinless and boneless
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- black pepper ground
- 3 dashes cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or more to taste
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- lemon for serving, wedges
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, lemon juice, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. The marinade will be pasty, not liquidy, as shown in the picture below.
- While the chicken breasts are marinating, preheat the oven to 400°F (207°C).
- Top the marinated chicken breasts evenly with the grated Parmesan cheese. Bake the chicken for about 20–30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the breasts.
- Remove the Parmesan baked chicken from the oven and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges, squeezing the juice over the chicken for extra flavor. You may also serve the chicken with your favorite hot sauce.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated canned types for best texture and flavor.
- Monitor internal temperature; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C) to retain juiciness.
- Serving with fresh lemon wedges enhances the brightness of the dish.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 2servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 515 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 515kcal | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 9g | 3% |
| Protein | 57g | 114% |
| Fat | 27g | 42% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 14g | 70% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 167mg | 56% |
| Sodium | 996mg | 42% |
| Potassium | 1003mg | 21% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 909IU | 18% |
| Vitamin C | 10mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 241mg | 24% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.