This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty and simple dish! You only need chicken, garlic, cheese, and a few herbs. Just mix everything together and pop it in the oven.
I love how the cheese gets all bubbly and golden! It feels like a warm hug on a plate. Serve it with some veggies or over rice, and you’ve got dinner covered. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you want a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs instead; they tend to be juicier!
Butter: Using melted butter adds richness. For a lighter version, try olive oil, which works well with the garlic for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—about 1 teaspoon should do it.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
Italian Seasoning: This blend gives great flavor, but you can mix your own herbs like thyme, basil, and oregano if preferred or choose your favorite herb.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep your chicken moist, here are some tips:
- Start with uniform-sized chicken breasts so they cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! Salt helps retain moisture.
- A meat thermometer is a great tool; cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect juiciness.
Covering the chicken with foil during the first half of baking can help trap moisture. Just remove it when you’re ready to let the cheese brown!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, place your chicken breasts in the greased baking dish. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken. This seasoning adds great flavor!
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic. This combination is what gives the chicken its tasty garlic flavor. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the chicken breasts.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Now it’s time for that cheesy goodness! Start by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken. Then, follow that with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Who doesn’t love extra cheese?
5. Bake It Up:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (it should have an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s ready, remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you’d like. It adds a nice touch of color and flavor! Serve hot, ideally with some steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad on the side.
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 will work great and can add even more juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To keep it low-carb, you can omit the breadcrumbs (if you want to add some next time) and enjoy the dish as is! Pair it with steamed vegetables or a leafy green salad instead of rice or pasta for a healthy meal.
Can I Prepare It Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake it as directed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave. If you find it’s a bit dry, adding a splash of broth can help revive the moisture.
