This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that comes together quickly! The chicken is coated in a mix of garlic, parmesan cheese, and some herbs, making it super flavorful.
You can’t go wrong with cheesy, garlicky goodness! I love how it fills the house with a delicious smell while it’s cooking. It’s the perfect comfort meal for any night! 🙌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for a change, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even switch to turkey cutlets.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. You can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper bite or use a non-dairy cheese for a lactose-free option.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise keeps the chicken moist and adds creaminess. If you’re watching calories, low-fat mayo works well, or Greek yogurt is a great, healthier substitute.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can use garlic powder—about 1 teaspoon for each clove.
Parsley: Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Dried parsley can be used instead, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky! The key is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safely cooked through. Here are some additional tips:
- Preheat your oven well. A hot oven helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Keep an eye on the time, but always check the temperature first!
- If you notice the cheese is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during baking.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake takes about 10 minutes to prep and then approximately 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you can have this meal ready to enjoy in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed into a creamy, uniform mixture.
3. Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer for even cooking.
4. Coat with the Mixture
Now, take your creamy garlic Parmesan mixture and spread it evenly over the chicken breasts. Use a spatula or a spoon to cover each chicken piece completely.
5. Bake the Chicken
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake hot, paired with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them first! The best way to thaw frozen chicken is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the quick-thaw method by placing the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten up this recipe, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, which reduces the calories and adds protein. Additionally, you can substitute half of the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a lower-fat option without sacrificing flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, making sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
What Are Some Good Sides to Serve with This Dish?
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or some pasta tossed with a light olive oil and lemon dressing to complement the creamy chicken.
