Pull-Apart Parmesan Italian Chicken
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Tender chicken breasts baked with zesty Italian dressing and a double layer of Parmesan for a cheesy, pull-apart weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: 35–40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan or mozzarella
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Preheat the oven to 200°C / 400°F.
- Place the chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the Italian dressing, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper and olive oil.
- Spoon the Parmesan Italian dressing mixture generously over each chicken breast, coating the surface completely.
- Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan or mozzarella evenly over the chicken.
- Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the Parmesan topping is golden and bubbling.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
- Pull one chicken piece apart to reveal the juicy interior and melted, stretchy Parmesan topping.
- Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.
Notes
- Let the coated meat sit at room temperature for ten minutes before baking for even cooking.
- Spread the dressing mixture all the way to the edges of each piece to prevent dry spots.
- Use the broiler for the final two minutes for an extra-crispy cheese crown; watch closely to prevent burning.
- Rest the chicken after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
- Do not skip the rest period; cutting too soon sends juices running out.
- Avoid using a baking dish that is too large, as excess space can cause the dressing to burn or evaporate.
- Do not cover with foil, which traps steam and prevents a golden crust.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: approximately 380