Quick and Easy Chicken Parmesan

Found this recipe on about.com.  It's a great quick alternative to the traditional method of breading and frying chicken before baking it with the sauce.  My croutons and top layer of cheese came out a little overcooked, but I was using the thin croutons, so maybe that's why.  Next time I'll sprinkle the top with water before baking.  I made this with a blend Weight Watchers mozzarella and a regular italian blend of cheeses, and served it with Barilla Plus angel hair for a high protein, higher fiber, lower calorie version.  It was delicious and SO easy!

 Easy Chicken Parmesan Bake

*Chicken Parmesan Photo © John Mitzewich

2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, crushed
hot red pepper flakes, to taste
6 boneless skinless chicken breasts, pound or fillet thin, or use 12 chicken tenders
2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
1/4 cup chopped basil
8 oz mozzarella, shredded
4 oz Parmesan, grated
1 (5-oz) package garlic croutons

Angel hair pasta (cooked)

Preheat oven to 350.  Spread olive oil, garlic, and crushed red pepper in bottom of 13x9 pan.  Add chicken and top with sauce and basil.  Sprinkle half the cheese on top, arrange croutons on top of cheese, and top with remaining cheese.  Bake 30-35 minutes or until chicken juices run clear.

Serve over a bed of angel hair pasta.