Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is an incredibly flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, savory garlic Parmesan crust. This baked chicken is the ultimate comfort food and makes for a perfect weeknight dinner that your entire family will enjoy. The garlic butter and Parmesan mixture creates a delicious coating that crisps up in the oven, giving you a mouthwatering texture. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal to impress or a dish the kids will love, this recipe fits the bill!

This one-pan recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With a few simple ingredients, you can have a wholesome meal that’s full of flavor without spending too much time in the kitchen. Plus, the garlic Parmesan topping is incredibly versatile, so feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Whether served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side salad, this chicken bake is a complete meal everyone will crave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a great choice for busy nights when you want something simple yet satisfying. The chicken stays juicy and tender while the Parmesan coating crisps up to a perfect golden brown. It’s the perfect balance of garlic, cheese, and savory goodness in every bite. The best part is how easy it is to make—just a few ingredients and minimal prep time required. This dish is family-friendly and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings or add extra ingredients to suit your preferences.

this …

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil

For the Garlic Parmesan Coating:

• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese
• Breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
• Butter, melted
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Variations

If you want to customize your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Add Vegetables: You can place vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini in the pan alongside the chicken to make it a one-pan meal.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic Parmesan mixture for a spicy kick.
• Use Different Cheese: If you want to change the flavor, try mixing in mozzarella cheese or cheddar for a cheesy, gooey twist.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a baking dish, and drizzle with olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Coating

In a medium bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the melted butter and mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should have a crumbly texture.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Generously coat each piece of chicken with the garlic Parmesan mixture. Press the coating into the chicken to ensure it sticks well.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Place the coated chicken into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The coating should be golden and crispy.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness. Serve the chicken hot with your favorite side dishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will provide the best flavor and texture for the crust. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as well.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Chicken: For even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are not touching each other in the baking dish. If necessary, bake in batches.
• Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached 165°F (75°C) internally for safe consumption.
• Rest the Chicken: After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to help retain its juices.

How to Serve

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great serving ideas:

• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and balanced meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or even cauliflower mash complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a fresh green salad with your favorite dressing.
• With Pasta: For a hearty meal, serve the chicken alongside spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

For long-term storage, you can freeze the baked chicken. Place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If using a microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly for this recipe. They will have a juicier texture and cook in a similar amount of time.

2. Can I use store-bought Parmesan cheese?

While fresh Parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor, you can use pre-grated Parmesan if needed. However, the texture may be slightly different.

3. Can I add more garlic to the coating?

Absolutely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic powder or even some minced fresh garlic to the coating for an extra punch of flavor.

4. Can I use a different type of breadcrumb?

Yes, you can use any type of breadcrumbs you prefer. Panko breadcrumbs will give a crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will work just as well.

5. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the garlic Parmesan mixture ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

7. Can I bake this dish in a glass dish?

Yes, a glass baking dish will work fine for this recipe. Just ensure that the chicken is spread evenly in the dish for even cooking.

8. Can I use other types of cheese?

You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, but Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture for this dish.

9. How do I prevent the crust from falling off?

Make sure to press the garlic Parmesan mixture into the chicken well, and avoid moving it around too much while baking.

10. Can I serve this chicken with dipping sauces?

Yes! A side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli would be perfect for dipping.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The crispy, savory garlic Parmesan crust adds a delicious layer of flavor, while the chicken remains juicy and tender on the inside. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, it’s a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Print