This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty and simple dish. Juicy chicken pieces are seasoned with garlic and topped with a cheesy, crunchy layer of Parmesan goodness.
The best part? It practically makes itself while you sit back and relax! I love serving it with a side of veggies for a colorful dinner plate that looks great and tastes even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish since they cook quickly and stay moist. If you prefer dark meat, thighs also work well. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Garlic: Garlic is crucial for flavor! Fresh is best, but if you have garlic powder on hand, you can use 1 teaspoon instead. Just remember, fresh garlic offers a richer taste.
Cheeses: Parmesan is the star here for its nutty flavor, but if you’re out, pecorino Romano can be a good substitute. For a lighter cheese, try low-fat mozzarella if you’re watching your calories.
Mayonnaise: While traditional mayonnaise adds creaminess, Greek yogurt is a healthier option. It still gives a tangy flavor and cuts calories. I often use it for a lighter take without sacrificing taste!
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs makes the dish aromatic. If you don’t have it, mix together dried basil, oregano, and thyme as a quick substitute.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Chicken for Even Cooking?
To ensure the chicken bakes evenly, you might want to pound the breasts to an even thickness. This avoids dry edges and helps the meat cook at the same rate. You can simply place them between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Preheat your oven first to set the right cooking environment.
- After pounding, season the chicken directly before adding the mayo mixture, allowing the flavors to infuse.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time—use a meat thermometer to check when it reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly juicy chicken.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish, and then it’s ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (if you’re using it), minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth—this will be the delicious sauce that flavors the chicken!
3. Apply the Sauce:
Place the chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Take your garlic mayo mixture and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
4. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Don’t be shy! Then, add the shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
5. Drizzle for Crispiness:
For an extra crispy top, drizzle a little olive oil over the cheese-covered chicken. This will help it brown beautifully while baking.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly, it’s ready!
7. Let it Rest:
Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken nice and juicy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a touch of color and added flavor! Serve your Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake with steamed vegetables, a refreshing salad, or your favorite grain for a complete meal.
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe. They’re juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It provides a similar creaminess and tang without the extra calories. Sour cream can also work for that creamy texture—feel free to mix and match according to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, make sure to warm it gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of broth or water while reheating can help retain moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish a few hours ahead! Just follow the steps up until adding the cheese, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. It may take a few extra minutes to cook if it’s cold from the fridge.
