This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a winner! Juicy chicken pieces are covered in a tasty mix of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, creating a crispy, golden crust.
It’s super simple to make, just mix and bake! I love serving it with some veggies or pasta on the side. Trust me, your family will love it. They’re gonna be asking for seconds! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal here for their tenderness. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-grated or even Pecorino Romano for a different twist.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add flavor, but plain breadcrumbs with added Italian herbs will work too. Gluten-free options are available if you’re avoiding gluten.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is fantastic, but garlic powder can be an alternative if you’re short on fresh ingredients. One teaspoon of garlic powder should suffice.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the saltiness. For a lighter option, olive oil works well and adds a nice flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- Always preheat your oven! This ensures even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you’re unsure, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. It helps juices redistribute, making it more tender.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 10 minutes of preparation time, followed by 25-30 minutes of baking. So, in total, you can have a delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, lightly grease a baking dish with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Coatings:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried Italian seasoning. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are combined evenly.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the melted butter, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides. This helps the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Bread the Chicken:
Once well buttered, press each chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, covering all surfaces evenly. This will create a delicious crust when baked!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the coated chicken breasts in your greased baking dish. If there’s any melted butter left in your bowl, drizzle it over the chicken for extra flavor.
6. Bake:
Pop the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for that golden, crispy exterior and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Then, serve it up and enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Skin-on chicken will add extra flavor and crispy texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as skin-on chicken may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, you can use Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor, or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different taste. Just note that it won’t have the same tangy flavor as Parmesan.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to get the breading crispy again.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
