Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti Recipe

Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food. This version is baked, not fried, making it a healthier option without compromising on flavor.

Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating this classic, from preparing the chicken to pairing suggestions. By the end, you’ll have a stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks.

Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti

Few dishes scream comfort food like Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti. This beloved classic combines crispy chicken, melted cheese, rich tomato sauce, and a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti. Whether you’re making this dish for a special dinner or a family gathering, it’s bound to impress.

This baked version offers a healthier twist on the traditional fried method, yet it maintains all the flavors and textures that make this dish so delightful. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you reduce the amount of oil used, making it a healthier yet flavorful choice.

Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan and Spaghetti

The recipe calls for simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. For the Chicken Parmesan, you need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices like garlic powder and oregano. An egg and milk mixture for dredging, marinara sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese complete the ensemble.

For the Spaghetti, you’ll need 12 oz of spaghetti, salt for boiling water, and a bit of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking. Additionally, fresh basil is optional for garnish. This combination of ingredients creates a rich, flavorful dish that’s easy to customize.

Preparing the Chicken

Start by placing each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly.

Next, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Prepare three bowls for the breading process: one with flour, another with a mixture of egg and milk, and a third with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Dredge the chicken in flour, dip in the egg mixture, and coat with breadcrumbs.

Baking the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil. Place the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or spray a little olive oil on top to help the breading become crispy.

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This baking method not only keeps the dish healthier but also ensures all the flavors are sealed in.

Cooking the Spaghetti

While the chicken bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Toss the cooked spaghetti with a bit of olive oil to keep it from sticking together. Add some marinara sauce for extra flavor. This step ensures the pasta is ready to merge perfectly with the baked chicken.

Adding Sauce and Cheese to the Chicken

Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and generously spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast. This adds moisture and flavor to the dish.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken breasts, then return them to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This final baking step ensures a deliciously cheesy crust on top of the chicken.

Assembling the Dish

Toss the cooked spaghetti with some reserved pasta water and additional marinara sauce. Place a serving of spaghetti on each plate and top with a baked chicken breast.

Garnish the dish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to complete the presentation. This final step combines all the elements into a cohesive, delicious meal.

Customizing Your Chicken Parmesan

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. You can also swap out the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta of your choice.

To make this dish keto-friendly, replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or a combination of almond flour and Parmesan cheese. Serve the chicken over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. This versatility makes it easy to adapt the recipe to different dietary needs.

Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Parmesan

Pound the chicken evenly to ensure it cooks quickly and without dry spots. Don’t skimp on the marinara, as it keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. For extra crispiness, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

For freezing, you can freeze the baked chicken before adding the sauce and cheese. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add the sauce and cheese during the last 10 minutes of reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti pairs well with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Consider serving it with garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.

For drinks, a bold red wine such as Chianti or Merlot complements the rich flavors of the dish. These pairings help you create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for any occasion. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you get all the crispiness and flavor without the extra oil.

Paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti and a rich marinara sauce, this meal is sure to become a staple in your home. With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that brings smiles to the faces around your dinner table.

Baked Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti is a delicious, comforting dish that’s easy to make yet impressive enough for any occasion. By baking the chicken instead of frying, you get all the crispiness and flavor without the extra oil.

Paired with perfectly cooked spaghetti and a rich marinara sauce, this meal is sure to become a staple in your home. With a few simple ingredients and some love, you can create a dish that brings smiles to the faces around your dinner table.