This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple and tasty dish! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in garlic, cheese, and a crispy topping that makes it extra special.
Honestly, I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix, spread, and bake! Plus, the smell of garlic filling the kitchen is a bonus. Your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless makes it easy to cook. If you prefer, you can swap these for chicken thighs—they stay juicier! You can also use thighs; they have more flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best as you control the salt level. If you’re looking for a healthier option, olive oil is a great substitute. It adds its own flavor!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is amazing, but you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. A teaspoon of garlic powder is equal to about 2 cloves of fresh garlic.
Cheeses: Parmesan is key for flavor, but pecorino romano can be a tasty alternative. For extra creaminess, you can add cream cheese or cream to the mix!
Breadcrumbs: Panko adds a great crunch! Regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do I Get the Chicken Cooked Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
To ensure juicy chicken, the trick is in the baking time and temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Bringing chicken to room temperature before cooking helps it cook more evenly.
- Brush the chicken with the butter-garlic mixture; it adds moisture and flavor.
- Place the chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Letting it rest for 5 minutes after baking helps juices redistribute, so don’t skip this step!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in about 40 minutes! It’s a quick solution for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, make sure to lightly grease a baking dish that’s big enough to fit your chicken breasts comfortably.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, giving them a little space between each one. This helps them cook evenly!
3. Mix the Butter and Garlic:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. This mixture will add wonderful flavor to the chicken.
4. Brush the Chicken:
Use a brush or a spoon to generously coat each chicken breast with the butter-garlic mixture. Make sure they’re well covered for maximum flavor!
5. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs together. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
6. Top the Chicken:
Now, take that cheesy breadcrumb mixture and sprinkle it evenly over the buttered chicken breasts. Press down lightly to ensure it sticks well.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (look for an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the topping to be golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let it Rest:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and delicious!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your flavorful and easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!
Bon appétit! 😋
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring they still reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Prep This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and layer the garlic-butter and cheese mixture in advance, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or oven at a low temperature to avoid drying out the chicken.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or over pasta and rice to soak up the flavors. Enjoy it with some crusty bread for an even heartier meal!
