This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is simple and sure to please! Juicy chicken breasts are coated in a tasty mix of garlic and cheese, then baked to golden perfection. Yum!
I love how this dish fills the home with a delicious smell while it cooks. Plus, it’s so easy to make, it feels like magic every time! Serve it with some veggies, and dinner is ready!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs, which are juicier, or even bone-in chicken; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder could work too. If you like a stronger garlic taste, feel free to add more cloves!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty bite. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or a vegan Parmesan if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the chicken moist and helps the cheese mixture stick. Greek yogurt or sour cream can work as lighter alternatives, bringing a tangy twist.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Evenly and Stay Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure it’s juicy every time!
- Start with evenly sized chicken breasts. If needed, pound them slightly to even out their thickness.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning – this helps the seasoning stick and browns better.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for juicy chicken without overcooking.
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it tender. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Cheese: 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Base: 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Seasoning: 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Seasoning: Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Garnish: Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and then 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have a tasty dinner ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or some non-stick spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nicely blended and creamy.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with some paper towels. Sprinkle a little salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
4. Layer It Up:
Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Spread the creamy garlic Parmesan mixture generously over the top of each chicken breast. Make sure each piece is nicely covered!
5. Add a Drizzle:
Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the chicken breast and the cheese topping. This will help them brown beautifully as they bake.
6. Bake Until Perfect:
Put the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and for the topping to become golden and bubbly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Optional Broiling:
If you’d like a little extra color on top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
8. Final Touches:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
Enjoy this savory, cheesy garlic Parmesan chicken alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a deeper flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time; thighs may take a few minutes longer to cook through than breasts.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I Use Fresh Herbs Instead of Dried?
Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor! Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried (1.5 teaspoons of fresh herbs to replace 1/2 teaspoon of dried). Just add them when mixing your garlic Parmesan topping.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese options for the Parmesan and mozzarella. This will help keep the same creamy texture while catering to dietary needs!
