Description
Cheesy Baked Chicken Parmesan
Spice things up with this bold and flavorful chicken parmesan!
Ingredients:
4 chicken breasts
1 cup spicy marinara sauce
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 tsp red chili flakes
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 200°C. Rub chicken with chili flakes, salt, and pepper, then drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 20 minutes, then add spicy marinara and cheeses.
Bake until cheese is golden and melted.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Who’s ready for the heat?
#SpicyChickenParmesan
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Spicy Chicken Parmesan every time. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare a baking dish with a light coating of olive oil or non-stick spray. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks. In a small bowl, mix the red chili flakes with a teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Rub this spice blend evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts, then place them in the prepared dish. Drizzle the tablespoon of olive oil over the top.
Bake the seasoned chicken on the middle rack for 20 minutes. Carefully remove the dish from the oven. The chicken should be mostly cooked through. Spoon the spicy marinara sauce evenly over each breast, covering the top. Next, create a cheesy layer by sprinkling the shredded pepper jack cheese first, followed by the grated Parmesan. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with sides that complement its richness and spice. Serve it over a bed of cooked spaghetti or linguine tossed in a simple garlic butter. For a lighter option, try it with zucchini noodles or a crisp green salad with a tangy Italian vinaigrette to cut through the cheese. A side of garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is essential for scooping up any extra sauce. Don’t forget to garnish with the fresh chopped parsley just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
In short: Season chicken breasts with chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes. Top with spicy marinara sauce, pepper jack, and Parmesan cheeses. Return to oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. For less heat, substitute the pepper jack with regular mozzarella. For more complexity, try a blend of mozzarella and provolone.
How can I make the chicken extra crispy? For a crispy coating, dredge the seasoned chicken in flour, then beaten egg, then a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan before the initial baking step.
What if my chicken breasts are very thick? Pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness before seasoning to ensure they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? You can assemble the dish up to the point of adding sauce and cheese, cover it, and refrigerate for a few hours. Add the sauce and cheese just before baking, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cook time.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered oven dish at 175°C to prevent the cheese from burning, or microwave individual portions until hot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Chicken: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking for more even baking.
- Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure the chicken breasts are not touching in the baking dish so heat can circulate properly.
- Overbaking: The second bake is just to melt the cheese and warm the sauce. Overcooking will dry out the chicken.
- Skipping the Garnish: The fresh parsley adds a crucial bright flavor that balances the dish’s richness; don’t omit it.
Conclusion
This Spicy Chicken Parmesan recipe is a fantastic twist on a classic, delivering bold flavor with minimal effort. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress. The combination of juicy chicken, fiery sauce, and melted cheeses is simply irresistible. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with a kick or for entertaining guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious heat!
