This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that puts a twist on your regular chicken. It features juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich garlic and cheesy Parmesan mix!
Honestly, it smells so good while baking that it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste before it’s ready! 🍗 I love serving it with veggies or on a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work, but I’d recommend using fresh for the richest taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is a must for that cheesy goodness. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano can be a great alternative, adding a slightly sharper flavor.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: This combination keeps the chicken moist. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie option that maintains creaminess.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, feel free to use dried oregano, basil, and thyme instead. It will still pack a punch of flavor!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is cooking it at the right temperature and not overbaking. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven accurately to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) to be safe and perfectly cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps keep the juices inside when you cut into it.
Optionally, broiling for a few minutes at the end creates a beautiful golden crust on top.
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 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. So, in about 40 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready for your family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, take a baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to keep the chicken from sticking.
2. Mix the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This will be the star of your dish!
3. Arrange the Chicken Breasts:
Take the chicken breasts and place them in your greased baking dish, making sure they are slightly spaced apart for even cooking.
4. Spread the Mixture:
Now, divide the creamy garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them well so they get all the flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and let it bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the topping looks golden and bubbly. If you’d like an extra crispy topping, consider broiling for 2-3 minutes at the end!
6. Serve It Up:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few moments. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, then serve your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy every bite!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time, as darker meat may require a few additional minutes to fully cook.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No worries! You can substitute the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or even a bit of cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to keep the mixture spreadable.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and spread the garlic Parmesan mixture on top, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
