Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Delicious Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies made easy! This vibrant, wholesome dish combines tender, crispy baked chicken topped with melted cheese and tangy marinara, perfectly paired with roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or craving a comforting homemade dinner, this Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe is sure to quickly become a family favorite thanks to its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and balanced flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless prep: Simple steps with minimal hands-on time make this recipe perfect for busy evenings.
• Balanced nutrition: Protein-packed chicken and fresh veggies create a satisfying, healthy meal.
• Flavor explosion: The blend of Parmesan, marinara, and herbs adds rich, comforting taste without heaviness.
• One-pan convenience: Baking everything together means less cleanup and more time to relax.
• Family-friendly: This crowd-pleaser appeals to kids and adults alike with its familiar, delicious flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe plays an essential role, offering a combination of texture, depth, and color. From juicy chicken breasts to fresh garden vegetables, these pantry staples come together effortlessly.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and easy seasoning absorption.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances every bite with Mediterranean flair.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp flavor that crisps beautifully under the broiler.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melted on top for creamy richness and that classic golden finish.
• Marinara sauce: Tomato-based, lightly seasoned to keep the dish fresh and vibrant.
• Mixed vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions bring sweetness, color, and crunch.
• Olive oil: Brushed on chicken and veggies to promote caramelization and moistness.
• Breadcrumbs: Optional but recommended for an added crispy texture on the chicken’s crust.
• Garlic: Minced, to infuse a warm, spicy aroma throughout the dish.
• Salt and pepper: Essentials to season and balance every flavor perfectly.

Variations for Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Feel free to customize the Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe depending on your dietary needs or ingredient availability. It’s incredibly flexible and invites creativity while keeping the heart of the dish intact.

• Gluten-free option: Swap regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko for the crunchy coating.
• Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with thick slices of eggplant or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based delight.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the marinara sauce for a subtle heat kick.
• Cheese alternatives: Use provolone, asiago, or even vegan cheese to change up the flavor profile.
• Seasonal veggies: Switch up the vegetables based on what’s fresh—think asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall.

How to Make Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, rinse and pat dry the chicken breasts, and chop your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even roasting.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic. For extra crunch, press a thin layer of breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan onto each breast.

Step 3: Arrange the Veggies

Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them out evenly on a baking sheet or a large oven-safe dish, creating a colorful base for your chicken.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken and Veggies

Place the seasoned chicken on top of the veggies and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the chicken is nearly cooked through and the veggies are tender.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Remove the baking dish from the oven and spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast. Then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan on top before returning to the oven.

Step 6: Finish Baking

Bake for another 8–10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

• Evenly pound chicken: For uniform cooking, gently pound chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top after baking elevates the flavor and presentation.
• Don’t overcrowd veggies: Give them space on the pan to roast properly and caramelize instead of steaming.
• Try a wire rack: Baking chicken on a wire rack above the vegetables helps crisp the crust and avoid sogginess.
• Watch the cheese: Keep an eye while broiling to prevent burning the mozzarella and Parmesan topping.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a bright pop of color and fresh aroma. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also lift the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this dish alongside garlic bread, a simple green salad, or cooked whole grains like quinoa or brown rice to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining, plate the chicken and veggies over a bed of cooked pasta or creamy polenta, then drizzle some extra marinara sauce and scatter grated Parmesan on top for a restaurant-style presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping flavors fresh and textures intact.

Freezing

This meal freezes beautifully; freeze portions separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to retain crispiness or in the microwave for a quick fix, though the crust may soften slightly in the latter.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor; just adjust baking time if they are bone-in or thicker cuts.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them entirely.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, marinara sauce can be homemade or store-bought and prepared in advance, making weeknight cooking even faster.

What vegetables work best for this recipe?

Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onions are ideal for roasting, but feel free to customize with what you have on hand.

How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

Use a light hand with cheese, choose skinless chicken breasts, and focus on plenty of vegetables to keep this meal healthy and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Parmesan & Veggies recipe brings together the best of comfort food and wholesome eating in a simple, weeknight-friendly dish. Its bright flavors, ease of preparation, and perfectly balanced ingredients make it a go-to for busy cooks who want a delicious, nutrient-packed meal without fuss. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite dinner!

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