This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that’s super simple to make! Juicy chicken gets covered in a delicious mix of garlic, cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs.
You’ll love how the flavors come together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze! I often serve it with some veggies or a salad for a complete meal. Yum! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which stay juicier.
Butter: Unsalted butter is suggested here to control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, try using olive oil or a vegan butter substitute instead!
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds amazing flavor, but you could use jarred minced garlic in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon of the jarred kind for each clove.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan brings a nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan option) works well too.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-style breadcrumbs give extra flavor, but plain breadcrumbs can work if that’s what you have. You can even use crushed crackers for a different texture!
How Do I Get the Topping Crisp and Delicious?
Getting that perfect crispy topping is key! Here’s how you can achieve it:
- Mix the breadcrumb mixture well so every bit gets coated with butter and garlic.
- Don’t rush the baking time! Make sure the chicken is cooked through but not dry. Aim for that golden topping.
- If you like an even crunchier finish, consider broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end—keep a close eye on it!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a little olive oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake takes about 10 minutes to prep, and 25-30 minutes for baking. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, plus any extra time if you broil for that crispy topping. Perfect for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Up the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine your melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed and holds together nicely.
3. Arrange the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish, making sure they’re not overcrowded. This will help them cook evenly.
4. Add the Topping:
Now, take your garlic Parmesan mixture and spoon it evenly over each chicken breast. Press it down gently so it sticks well to the chicken.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Put the baking dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. It’s done when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the topping is nice and golden brown.
6. Broil for Extra Crunch (Optional):
If you want an even crispier topping, you can place the dish under the broiler for an additional 1-2 minutes. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the dish out of the oven and garnish it with some fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, cheesy, garlicky chicken bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Cooking from frozen is not recommended, as it may result in uneven cooking.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep the chicken moist!
What Can I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?
This delicious chicken pairs well with a side of roasted veggies, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over pasta or rice to soak up any leftover sauce!
