This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken coated with garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan creates a tasty dish that’s quick to whip up.
No need to fuss over complicated recipes! I love how simple it is—just mix the ingredients, place the chicken in a dish, and let the oven do the work. Dinner is served!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best for a quick bake. If you’re in a pinch, thighs can work too; they stay juicy and add more flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic delivers the best taste. If you don’t have it, garlic powder is a decent substitute. Just use about a teaspoon for a comparable flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is essential for that nutty flavor. If you don’t have this cheese, try Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist.
Mayonnaise: This ingredient keeps the chicken moist. You can swap it for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option.
Italian Seasoning: This mix of herbs adds flavor depth. You could create your own mix with equal parts oregano, basil, and thyme if you don’t have the pre-made blend.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky! Here are a few tips to help:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you want the topping to be extra crispy, place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously tender chicken bake every time!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional cooking time of 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Easy peasy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish using cooking spray or olive oil to ensure nothing sticks.
2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until you have a smooth, creamy mixture.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into the greased baking dish. Take the garlic Parmesan mixture and spread it evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the coated chicken. The more cheese, the better!
5. Bake:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through—check that it’s no longer pink in the middle and the juices run clear. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want your cheese to have a nice golden brown color, turn on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
7. Let It Rest:
Once it’s ready, take the dish out of the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like a little color on top. Then dish it out and enjoy your delicious, easy garlic Parmesan chicken bake!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier. Just ensure they’re boneless and skinless for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be used as a substitute. It will give a similar creaminess with fewer calories!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes, you can! Freeze the prepared dish before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and cook as per the recipe instructions.
