This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that’s super simple to make! Juicy chicken breasts are baked with a yummy garlic and cheese topping that makes every bite irresistible.
You just mix the garlic, parmesan, and a few seasonings, spread it over the chicken, and pop it in the oven. It looks fancy but is really easy! I love serving it with a fresh salad—so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use chicken thighs instead. They’re juicier and add more flavor!
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a strong flavor. You can also use garlic powder in a pinch, but I recommend fresh if you can. A little more flavor goes a long way!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that creamy, cheesy taste. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano works well too, but it’s saltier, so adjust your seasoning.
Mayonnaise: It keeps the chicken tender and moist. If you’re avoiding mayo, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative, giving a nice tang while still keeping it creamy.
Italian Seasoning: This mix brings so much flavor! You can substitute with dried oregano and basil if that’s what you have on hand. Fresh herbs work too but use more since they’re milder.
How Do I Get the Cheese Topping Perfectly Golden?
To achieve that perfectly golden cheese topping, a few key steps matter. First, ensure your oven is fully preheated. This helps the cheese melt and brown evenly. During the last 1-2 minutes, switch to broil to get that golden crust.
- Watch closely while broiling so you don’t burn it. Just a minute or two can make a huge difference!
- If you want extra crunch, you can mix in a bit of breadcrumbs with the cheese before baking.
Let your chicken rest after removal from the oven. This helps keep everything juicy and allows the cheeses to set up a little.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, in just about 40 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish to make sure nothing sticks!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them cook better! Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the chicken into the prepared baking dish with a little space between each piece.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Spread the Mixture:
Now, take the garlic Parmesan mixture and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Press it down slightly so it sticks nicely.
5. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken for an extra cheesy touch!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked (the center should reach 165°F or 74°C). The cheese should also be golden and bubbly!
7. Broil for Extra Browning:
If you want the cheese a bit more golden and crispy, turn on the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
8. Let it Rest:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. This is also the perfect time to chop up some fresh parsley for garnish, if you’d like.
9. Serve It Up:
Serve your delicious garlic Parmesan chicken warm, alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or rice. Enjoy your flavorful dish!
Happy cooking!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake: FAQ
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge before use. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain the chicken’s moisture. If you’re in a hurry, you can thaw it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Replace Mayonnaise With?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar creamy texture. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt will add a bit of tanginess to the flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through. If it seems too dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it well, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
