This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delicious and simple dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken is coated in a tasty mix of garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection!
Honestly, it’s hard to beat the smell of garlic wafting through the kitchen! I love to serve it with a side of veggies or pasta. You won’t have leftovers with this tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. For a juicier option, you could use thighs instead. They have more fat and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, giving a strong flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, minced garlic from a jar can work, but scale back to 1-2 teaspoons because it’s more concentrated.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty and nutty flavor. If you need a substitution, you can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient keeps the chicken moist and adds creaminess. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier version, or sour cream works too!
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs works well here. If you don’t have it, mix equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme from your spice rack.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
To make sure your chicken comes out juicy, marinate it briefly in the garlic mixture before baking, if possible. Here’s how:
- Combine garlic, Parmesan, mayonnaise, parsley, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Coat your chicken breasts in this mix and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes for added flavor and moisture.
- This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor!
Also, avoid overcooking; check the chicken’s temperature with a meat thermometer. Once it hits 165°F (74°C), take it out! Letting it rest helps keep the juices sealed inside. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes before you can dig into this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll want to make sure your oven is at the right temperature before baking. While it’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Mix the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You want a creamy consistency that will coat the chicken nicely.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re spread out and not overlapping for even cooking.
4. Spread the Delicious Mixture:
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the tops of each chicken breast. Get it all covered because this is what will make the chicken so flavorful!
5. Add the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the chicken and garlic mixture. This will melt beautifully and create a cheesy crust!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on the chicken; it’s ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, making it extra moist. Serve it with your favorite side dishes!
8. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some additional fresh parsley on top right before serving for a bit of color and freshness. Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before baking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe to ensure the garlic Parmesan mixture adheres well.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for mayonnaise! It will add creaminess with fewer calories. Sour cream can also work if you’re looking for a similar texture and flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and apply the garlic Parmesan mixture a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven without needing to adjust the cooking time significantly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist during reheating!
