Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful dinner featuring tender boneless skinless chicken breasts topped with a garlicky Parmesan herb crust. This simple yet rich dish is perfect for easy weeknight meals or cozy family dinners, with minimal prep and cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Topping
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: 2 tablespoons heavy cream or sour cream for extra creaminess
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to build a flavorful base.
- Mix the Garlic Parmesan Topping: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, softened butter, and chopped fresh parsley. For a creamier texture, fold in heavy cream or sour cream. The mixture should be spreadable yet hold its shape.
- Assemble the Bake: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Evenly spread the garlic Parmesan mixture on top of each chicken piece to form a flavorful crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a golden finish, broil for the last 2-3 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken. Let it rest a few minutes to lock in juices and enhance flavors before serving.
Notes
- Let chicken come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before cooking for even baking.
- Always use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan to ensure proper melting and flavor.
- To keep chicken moist, tent with foil during the first half of baking if preferred.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and maintain tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with topping
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg