Introduction
Discover a flavorful dish with a delightful combination of crispy chicken, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese topped with fresh basil. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 large egg
½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
10 ounces frozen broccoli (1 bag)
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup finely chopped fresh basil
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 23 minutes
Total Time: 38 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk the large egg until it is well blended and smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Coating Ingredients
In another shallow bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasonings.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Breasts
Take each boneless, skinless chicken breast and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring that both sides are thoroughly coated. Allow any excess egg to shake off back into the bowl.
Step 5: Dredge the Chicken
Carefully dredge the coated chicken breasts in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating adheres well. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Spray Chicken with Oil
Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken breasts with olive oil spray or baking spray to promote browning during baking.
Step 7: Initial Baking
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing it to cook and begin to brown.
Step 8: Add the Broccoli
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Add the frozen broccoli around the chicken breasts, spreading the broccoli pieces out as evenly as possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 9: Continue Baking
Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to cook through.
Step 10: Add Marinara Sauce
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast, ensuring they are covered.
Step 11: Sprinkle the Cheese
Sprinkle the freshly shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce on each chicken breast, covering the sauce completely.
Step 12: Final Baking
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 13: Optional Broiling for Crispness
If desired, switch the oven to broil for about 2 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and slightly crisp the broccoli. Watch closely to prevent burning during this step.
Step 14: Garnish and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the dish with finely chopped fresh basil before serving to add a fresh flavor.
Notes
Cooking Time Adjustment
Depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary slightly, so check the internal temperature to ensure reaching a minimum safe temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Substitution Suggestions
Feel free to substitute other vegetables for broccoli, such as asparagus or green beans, if desired.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of pasta, rice, or a green salad to complete the meal.
Cook techniques
Coating Chicken
To achieve a crispy texture, the chicken breasts are first dipped in an egg mixture which helps the breadcrumbs stick better. This process ensures a well-adhered coating, leading to a deliciously crunchy exterior once baked.
Breadcrumb Mixture
Combining Panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder creates a flavorful and textured coating for the chicken. Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, resulting in a crispier finish compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Baking
Baking the chicken at 400°F ensures thorough cooking while allowing the coatings to become golden and crispy without the need for frying. This method is healthier and allows for even cooking throughout the chicken breasts.
Addition of Vegetables
Introducing frozen broccoli during the baking process ensures that it cooks alongside the chicken. The steam created helps to keep the broccoli tender while allowing the chicken to maintain its juiciness and flavor.
Melting Cheese
After the chicken is baked, adding marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese allows the cheese to melt and blend with the sauce, creating a rich, Italian-inspired topping. This step adds another layer of flavor and creaminess to the dish.
Broiling for Finish
Switching to the broil setting provides an intense heat that quickly caramelizes the cheese and crisps the broccoli. It’s important to watch closely during this step to prevent burning.
FAQ
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture may be less crispy compared to using Panko.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs, turkey breasts, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can use Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a homemade tomato sauce as substitutes for marinara.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and breadcrumbs ahead of time, then bake it fresh when ready to serve. You can also fully assemble it and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
How can I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus can be added. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
Conclusion
This baked chicken dish not only delivers delightful flavors but also combines the nutritional benefits of lean protein and vegetables. The crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken, paired with the vibrant broccoli and delicious marinara topped with mozzarella, creates a satisfying meal that is both simple and elegant. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, it’s sure to please the whole family.
Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Peppers
Incorporate the same Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture into halved bell peppers, stuff them with shredded chicken and marinara, then bake until tender.
Broccoli and Cheese Chicken Casserole
Layer shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, marinara, and a blend of cheese for a hearty casserole that’s perfect for leftovers.
Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli
Toss cooked pasta with shredded chicken, broccoli, diced tomatoes, marinara, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a comforting pasta dish.
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake
Combine cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, and pasta with creamy Alfredo sauce, topping it with mozzarella cheese and baking until bubbly.
Parmesan Crusted Vegetables
Use the breadcrumb mixture to coat assorted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or cauliflower, then roast for a deliciously crispy side dish.
