This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that’s packed with flavor! Juicy chicken breasts are coated in garlic, buttery goodness, and topped with a crispy Parmesan crust.
You’ll love how simple it is to make! Just mix, bake, and voilà! I can never resist sneaking bites while it cooks—who can say no to that cheesy aroma? 🧄🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make for a quick bake. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier bite, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best here for its strong flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work (about 1/2 teaspoon for each clove). Just remember, fresh is always tastier!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives that nice cheesy crust. If you don’t have any, consider using Pecorino Romano or a pre-shredded Italian cheese blend as a substitute.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a great crunch. If you don’t have Panko, regular breadcrumbs will do, but you could also use crushed crackers or cornflakes for a unique twist.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken juicy while baking can be tricky, but here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps it brown better and maintain moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature – 165°F (74°C) is ideal!
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking to help the juices redistribute.
These small steps can make a big difference for syrupy, flavorful chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crispiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This prepares the oven for even cooking. While it heats, you can do the rest of the prep!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps the coating stick better and ensures a nice texture. Place them in a lightly greased baking dish, ready for flavor enhancement!
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the minced garlic, melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Stir well until everything is combined and has a crumbly texture.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Generously spoon the garlic Parmesan mixture over each chicken breast. Make sure to press gently so that it sticks to the chicken—this will create a lovely crust as it bakes.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Next, pop the baking dish into your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The topping should be golden and crispy—just perfect!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve it alongside your favorite side dishes such as vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used in this recipe for a juicier and richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure to also check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free, as some brands may add fillers.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and apply the garlic Parmesan mixture a few hours in advance. Just cover it and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Remember to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge!
What Should I Do With Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Enjoy it sliced in salads, wraps, or over pasta for a quick meal!
