Moving Beyond Nuggets!

Baked Chicken Parmesan

Let’s talk about chicken. Chicken nuggets are a favorite of many kids, but are they a good choice? Chicken can be a healthy option for kids but it’s all in how it’s prepared. It is a great source of protein. Protein helps build your child’s tissues and muscles which results in growing taller and stronger. Chicken provides vitamins and minerals and is good for the heart. 

The recipe options using chicken are endless. Start by buying fresh or frozen chicken that has not been processed or breaded. Look for simple recipes that bake, grill, or roast, not fry. Chicken doesn’t have to be boring. Try new seasoning blends and marinades. You can also make your own chicken tenders in an air fryer. Remember, chicken should be cooked to 165 degrees to prevent food borne illness.

So let’s look beyond chicken nuggets and find new creative ways to serve chicken to your family.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unseasoned wholegrain bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan (or romano) cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2lbs chicken cutlets
• 3/4 cup sauce
• 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese

Directions

STEP 1

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

STEP 2
In a medium bowl mix together the bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, granulated garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

STEP 3
Coat a sheet pan with the olive oil.

STEP 4
Dredge each chicken cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture and place on the sheet pan. Discard the rest of the breadcrumb mixture.

STEP 5
Bake the chicken for 15 minutes. Turn over and bake for another 15 minutes.

STEP 6
Remove the pan from the oven and spread 2 tablespoons of sauce and 2 tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese on each chicken cutlet.

STEP 7
Place back in the oven and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce is hot and cheese is melted. •