If you're looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, 1 piece (340 g) of chicken Parmesan is a great option. Not only is it filling, but it's also relatively low in calories, with 170 calories per serving.

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that consists of breaded chicken breast topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese. It's a crowd-pleaser that can be found on the menus of many Italian restaurants.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional value of chicken Parmesan, as well as some tips for making it healthier and enjoying it in moderation.

Calories in Chicken Parmesan

As mentioned earlier, a 1 piece (340 g) serving of chicken Parmesan contains 170 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used and the size of the serving. If you're watching your calorie intake, you may want to consider using low-fat cheese and tomato sauce and baking the chicken instead of frying it. Additionally, you can reduce the serving size to decrease the calorie count.

What is Chicken Parmesan?

Chicken Parmesan is a traditional Italian-American dish that involves coating a chicken breast in breadcrumbs and frying it until it's crispy. The chicken is then topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, usually mozzarella or Parmesan. Some variations of the dish include adding herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley to the tomato sauce. Chicken Parmesan can be served with pasta, vegetables, or a salad.

What are the Ingredients in Chicken Parmesan?

The ingredients used to make chicken Parmesan typically include chicken breast, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, tomato sauce, and cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan. Herbs and spices, such as garlic, basil, and oregano, may also be used to add flavor to the dish. Some recipes call for flour or cornmeal in addition to the breadcrumbs to create a crispier coating.

How is Chicken Parmesan Prepared?

To make chicken Parmesan, start by pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness. Then, coat the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs, eggs, and herbs or spices. Fry the chicken until it's golden brown on both sides. Next, top the chicken with tomato sauce and cheese, and bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Chicken Parmesan can be served with pasta or other sides of your choice.

What is the Nutritional Value of Chicken Parmesan?

A 1 piece (340 g) serving of chicken Parmesan contains approximately 170 calories, 17 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, and 9 grams of carbohydrates. It also provides 20% of the recommended daily allowance of calcium and 15% of the RDA of iron. However, the calorie and nutrient content of chicken Parmesan can vary depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. For a healthier option, consider using low-fat cheese and tomato sauce and baking the chicken instead of frying it.

Benefits of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan can be a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue in the body. It also provides several important nutrients, such as calcium and iron. Additionally, because chicken Parmesan is a filling and satisfying meal, it can help curb cravings and prevent overeating. However, it's important to enjoy it in moderation and incorporate other healthy foods into your diet as well.

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Healthier

To make chicken Parmesan healthier, consider using low-fat cheese and tomato sauce, and baking the chicken instead of frying it. Additionally, you can make a smaller serving size to reduce the calorie count. You can also add vegetables to the dish, such as spinach or zucchini, to increase the nutritional value without adding many calories. Finally, enjoy chicken Parmesan as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Tips for Eating Chicken Parmesan

To enjoy chicken Parmesan in moderation, start by cutting down on the serving size. You can also pair it with a small salad or steamed vegetables to add more fiber and nutrients to your meal. Additionally, be mindful of the ingredients used in the dish. Look for options that use low-fat cheese and tomato sauce and avoid recipes that call for excessive amounts of oil, butter, or salt.

Chicken Parmesan vs. Other Chicken Dishes

Compared to other chicken dishes, chicken Parmesan can be relatively high in calories and fat. For example, a 3-piece fried chicken breast meal from a popular fast food chain can contain up to 830 calories and 48 grams of fat. However, chicken Parmesan can also provide more nutrients and protein than some other chicken dishes, such as chicken nuggets or fried chicken wings.

Chicken Parmesan FAQs

Q: Can I make chicken Parmesan without cheese? A: Yes, you can make chicken Parmesan without cheese, but it may not be as flavorful or moist as the traditional version. Try using a low-fat cheese or a cheese alternative if you're looking to cut back on calories. Q: Is chicken Parmesan gluten-free?