Gluten-Free Baked Chicken Parmesan

Gluten-Free Baked Chicken Parmesan

Julia

This Gluten-Free Baked Chicken Parmesan brings all the comfort and satisfaction of the classic Italian-American favorite without any gluten. Tender chicken breasts are coated in a perfectly seasoned gluten-free breadcrumb mixture, then baked until golden and crispy before being topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. The result is a dish that's just as satisfying as the traditional version, with a crunchy exterior giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken beneath a blanket of bubbling cheese.

Chicken Parmesan, or "Chicken Parmigiana," has its roots in Italian cuisine, though the version we know today was popularized in Italian-American restaurants throughout the 20th century. By using certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and baking instead of frying, this recipe offers a healthier approach that doesn't sacrifice any of the beloved flavors. The baking method also makes it easier to prepare for weeknight dinners, as you can simply pop the dish in the oven and attend to side dishes while it cooks.

What makes this recipe special is its accessibility for those following a gluten-free diet without compromising on taste or texture. The gluten-free breadcrumbs create an equally crispy coating, and the combination of Parmesan in the breading and mozzarella on top delivers that signature cheesy goodness. Serve this alongside gluten-free pasta, zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that the whole family will love, whether they're gluten-free or not.

Julia

Julia

Recipe Author: Gluten-Free & Specialty Diet Chef

Nutrition

50 minutes
None servings
485 calories
Fat 18.00g
Carbs 28.00g
Protein 52.00g

Ingredients

4 piecesboneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
1.5 cupsgluten-free breadcrumbs
1/2 cupParmesan cheese, grated
2 tspItalian seasoning
1 tspgarlic powder
1 tspsalt, divided
1/2 tspblack pepper
2 largeeggs, beaten
1/2 cupgluten-free all-purpose flour
2 tbspolive oil
2 cupsmarinara sauce, gluten-free
1.5 cupsmozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tbspfresh basil, chopped (optional)

Equipment

Oven
measuring spoons
measuring cups
paper towels
meat thermometer
9x13-inch baking dish
plastic wrap
grater
meat mallet
three shallow bowls

Clean Eating

Aligns perfectly with clean eating principles by using whole ingredients like chicken, fresh marinara sauce, and minimally processed gluten-free breadcrumbs, avoiding artificial additives and focusing on whole food preparation.

Gluten-Free Diet

This recipe is perfectly designed for gluten-free diets, using certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free all-purpose flour to create a crispy chicken parmesan without any wheat-based ingredients.

Intermittent Fasting

An excellent option for intermittent fasting with its high-protein chicken, nutrient-dense ingredients, and balanced macronutrient profile that can help maintain satiety during eating windows.

Low-Carb Diet

A low-carb friendly option that uses gluten-free breadcrumbs sparingly and focuses on protein-rich chicken, keeping net carbohydrates relatively low while providing a satisfying, crispy-coated protein.

Paleo Diet

While traditional Paleo diets avoid breadcrumbs, this recipe could be modified by using almond flour or crushed nuts as a coating, making the core concept Paleo-adaptable with grass-fed chicken and whole food ingredients.

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

1 min
2

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with gluten-free flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, one with beaten eggs, and one with gluten-free breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.

3 min
3

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound them to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking.

3 min
4

Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off.

2 min
5

Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Place the breaded chicken on a plate.

2 min
6

Drizzle the olive oil over the bottom of the prepared baking dish and arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer.

1 min
7

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is nearly cooked through.

20 min
8

Remove the baking dish from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast, using about 1/2 cup per piece.

1 min
9

Top each chicken breast with shredded mozzarella cheese, dividing it evenly among the four pieces.

1 min
10

Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

10 min
11

Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired before serving.

5 min

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