Heart-Healthy Classic Chicken Parmesan
Savor the comforting flavors of a classic Italian favorite with our **Heart-Healthy Classic Chicken Parmesan**—a lighter twist on the traditional dish that doesn’t skimp on taste. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts are coated in crispy whole wheat breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection in a zesty unsalted tomato sauce. Topped with melted part-skim mozzarella and a touch of Parmesan, this recipe is a guilt-free indulgence packed with wholesome ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and fresh basil. Ready in just 50 minutes, this easy, lower-fat chicken Parmesan is perfect for busy weeknights or a healthy family dinner. Pair it with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a satisfying, well-balanced meal that's big on flavor and heart-smart nutrition.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 pieces egg whites
- 2 cups unsalted tomato sauce
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to reduce the need for additional oil.
Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
In a shallow dish, mix whole wheat breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
In a separate bowl, lightly whisk the egg whites until they are just frothy.
Dip each chicken breast in the egg whites, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even layer.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add two of the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and two more chicken breasts.
Pour 1 cup of the unsalted tomato sauce into a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread to cover the bottom. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the chicken breasts. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Serve the Chicken Parmesan hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete, heart-healthy meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
2540 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 91.3 g | 117% | |
| Saturated Fat | 32.2 g | 161% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 692 mg | 231% | |
| Sodium | 4109 mg | 179% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 127.6 g | 46% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.8 g | 78% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.3 g | ||
| Protein | 295.6 g | 591% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 1541 mg | 119% | |
| Iron | 20.3 mg | 113% | |
| Potassium | 4164 mg | 89% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
