If you're looking for a delicious and healthier version of the classic Italian dish, then look no further than America's Test Kitchen's recipe for Lighter Chicken Parmesan. This recipe offers all the flavors and satisfaction of traditional chicken parmesan, but with a few lighter twists that make it a guilt-free indulgence. So, let's dive in and discover how to make this mouth-watering dish in your own kitchen!
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe | America's Test Kitchen
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
The first secret to making a lighter chicken parmesan is in the coating. Instead of using traditional breadcrumbs, this recipe calls for Panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than their traditional counterparts. Panko breadcrumbs are made from crustless bread, giving them a lighter and flakier texture. They also absorb less oil, making them a healthier option for coating your chicken.
1. Using Panko Breadcrumbs for a Lighter Coating
America's Test Kitchen
Another way this recipe reduces the calorie count is by baking the chicken instead of frying it. While traditional chicken parmesan is usually fried in oil, this recipe calls for baking the chicken in the oven. This method not only reduces the calorie count, but it also results in a lighter and less greasy dish.
2. Baking Instead of Frying
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Cheese lovers, don't worry, this recipe still includes a generous amount of cheese. However, instead of using solely mozzarella, this recipe calls for a blend of part-skim mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This combination still gives the dish that delicious cheesy flavor, but with less fat and calories.
3. Using a Lighter Cheese Blend
America's Test Kitchen
To add an extra layer of flavor to this lighter chicken parmesan, fresh herbs are used in the sauce. The recipe calls for fresh basil and parsley, which not only add a burst of freshness but also provide essential nutrients. These herbs are also used as a garnish, adding a pop of green to the dish and making it look even more appetizing.
4. Adding Flavor with Fresh Herbs
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
To make this dish a complete and balanced meal, it is recommended to serve it with a side of vegetables. The recipe suggests roasted broccoli, but you can also pair it with a side salad or your favorite steamed vegetables. This adds more fiber and nutrients to the meal, making it a healthier and well-rounded option.
5. Serving with a Side of Vegetables
America's Test Kitchen
The key to a great-tasting chicken parmesan is in the sauce. This recipe calls for using a high-quality marinara sauce, which is the base of the dish. A good marinara sauce is made with fresh and natural ingredients, without any added sugars or preservatives. This ensures that your chicken parmesan is not only lighter but also packed with flavor.
6. Using High-Quality Tomato Sauce
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
For those who want to take this recipe to the next level, you can make your own tomato sauce from scratch. This will give you more control over the ingredients and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Plus, it's a fun and rewarding cooking project to try at home.
7. Making Your Own Tomato Sauce
America's Test Kitchen
This recipe also makes a healthier swap by using extra-virgin olive oil instead of butter. Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat and is a staple in the Mediterranean diet. It not only adds flavor to the dish but also provides essential nutrients. Plus, it's a lighter option than butter, which is often used in traditional chicken parmesan recipes.
8. Using Olive Oil Instead of Butter
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
For those who have a gluten intolerance or are following a gluten-free diet, this recipe can easily be adapted. Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use a gluten-free marinara sauce. You can also serve the chicken parmesan with gluten-free pasta or quinoa for a complete meal.
9. Making It Gluten-Free
America's Test Kitchen
With all these lighter twists, you might be wondering if this chicken parmesan will still taste as delicious as the traditional version. The answer is a resounding yes! This recipe has been tested and perfected by America's Test Kitchen, ensuring that it delivers on flavor while also being a healthier option. So, go ahead and enjoy this lighter indulgence without any guilt!
10. Enjoying a Lighter Indulgence
Lighter Chicken Parmesan Recipe
America's Test Kitchen's Lighter Chicken Parmesan recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier version of this classic dish. With its lighter coating, baking method, and use of fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients, this recipe proves that you don't have to sacrifice flavor for a lighter meal. So, why not give it a try and see for yourself? Your taste buds (and waistline) will thank you!
Final Thoughts
America's Test Kitchen
The Secret to Making the Perfect Light Chicken Parmesan
How America's Test Kitchen Revolutionized a Classic Dish
When it comes to classic comfort food, few dishes can beat a hearty serving of chicken parmesan. However, this Italian-American favorite often comes with a heavy dose of calories and fat, making it a less-than-ideal choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. But fear not, because America's Test Kitchen has cracked the code to creating a light and flavorful chicken parmesan that still satisfies those comfort food cravings.
To achieve the perfect balance of flavor and health, the chefs at America's Test Kitchen focused on using
fresh and high-quality ingredients
in their light chicken parmesan recipe. Instead of using traditional bread crumbs, they opted for a mixture of
panko bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese
, which provides a
crisp and flavorful coating
for the chicken without the added fat and calories.
But the real secret to making the perfect light chicken parmesan lies in the cooking method. Instead of pan-frying the chicken in oil, the chefs at America's Test Kitchen discovered that baking the chicken in the oven produces a
crispy and golden crust
without the need for excess oil. This not only cuts down on calories, but also reduces the amount of saturated fat in the dish.
Another key element in creating a light chicken parmesan is the tomato sauce. Instead of using a heavy and calorie-laden marinara sauce, the chefs at America's Test Kitchen opted for a
light and fresh tomato sauce
made from
fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs
. This not only adds a burst of flavor to the dish, but also cuts down on the added sugar and sodium that can be found in store-bought sauces.
To top it all off, the chefs at America's Test Kitchen
swap out traditional mozzarella cheese for a sprinkle of low-fat ricotta cheese
, which still adds a creamy and cheesy element to the dish without the added calories and fat.
In the end, America's Test Kitchen has transformed the classic chicken parmesan into a
light and flavorful
dish that can be enjoyed without any guilt. So next time you're craving some comfort food, give this light chicken parmesan recipe a try and taste the difference for yourself.
