Italian Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bake

A healthy, oil-free Italian-style baked chicken topped with rich tomato purée, bubbly mozzarella, and crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust.

Ingredients

• 400 g tomato purée
• 1 red onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 75 g breadcrumbs
• 75 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 3 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup flour
• to taste mozzarella cheese
• to taste fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. 1Sauté Red Onion

   

   Heat olive oil in a pan, add chopped red onion, and sauté until softened, about 6 to 7 minutes.

   Tip: Stir frequently to ensure even softening and to prevent burning the onions.
2. 2Add Minced Garlic

   

   Stir the minced garlic into the softened red onions in the pan and sauté until fragrant.

   Tip: Add garlic after the onions have softened so the garlic does not burn.
3. 3Pour Tomato Purée

   

   Pour 400g of tomato purée into the pan with the sautéed onions and garlic, and simmer over low heat.

   Tip: Maintain a low heat to let the sauce simmer gently without splattering.
4. 4Season the Tomato Sauce

   

   Season the simmering tomato sauce with a teaspoon of sugar and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, then stir until well combined.

   Tip: The sugar balances the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
5. 5Beat Eggs

   

   Crack and beat two eggs in a mixing bowl until smooth and fully combined.

   Tip: Ensure the whites and yolks are thoroughly mixed to create a uniform wash.
6. 6Prepare Breadcrumb Mixture

   

   Combine 75g of breadcrumbs, 75g of grated Parmesan cheese, a teaspoon of salt, a teaspoon of black pepper, a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, a teaspoon of chili powder, and two tablespoons of olive oil in a bowl, then mix well.

   Tip: Mix the dry ingredients and olive oil thoroughly so the coating adheres evenly to the chicken.
7. 7Coat the Chicken with Flour

   

   Place the prepared chicken pieces onto a clean cutting board and dust them evenly with flour. Ensure every piece has a light, uniform coating to help the subsequent egg wash adhere properly.

   Tip: Shake off any excess flour so the coating doesnt become too thick or clumpy.
8. 8Dip in Egg Wash and Breadcrumbs

   

   Take each floured chicken piece and dip it completely into the beaten eggs to coat thoroughly. Immediately transfer it to the bowl containing the seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so the breadcrumbs stick evenly before placing it into the prepared baking tray.

   Tip: Use one hand for the wet egg wash and the other hand for the dry breadcrumbs to keep your fingers clean.

Storage & Reheating

Burn It Off

Frequently Asked Questions