Chicken Parmesan with Whole Grain Spaghetti
Chicken Parmesan with Whole Grain Spaghetti is a hearty Italian-American comfort food featuring breaded, fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, served alongside whole grain spaghetti. The dish typically includes chicken breast, breadcrumbs, marinara sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and spaghetti pasta. It originated as an Italian immigrant dish in the United States, evolving from the classic Italian 'melanzane alla parmigiana' (eggplant parmesan) to incorporate chicken and pasta.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is high in protein from the chicken and cheese, moderate in carbohydrates from the pasta and breading, and can be relatively high in fat due to frying and cheese. Key nutrients include protein, iron, B vitamins, and calcium, with a rough calorie ballpark of 600-800 calories per serving depending on portion sizes and preparation methods.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 45 g |
| Carbs | 60 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 950 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Vitamin A | 300 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 450 mg |
| Zinc | 4 mg |
Per 1 plate (about 450 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents the fusion of Italian culinary traditions with American ingredients and preferences, becoming a staple in Italian-American cuisine. Nutritionally, using whole grain spaghetti adds fiber and nutrients compared to refined pasta, making it a slightly more balanced version of a classic comfort food.
