This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a hit with its juicy chicken and a crispy, cheesy topping. It’s packed with flavor and super simple to make!
Honestly, the garlic and parmesan combo makes my kitchen smell amazing! I love serving this with some veggies or a fresh salad—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish quick and tender. You can also use thighs for added juiciness, or even bone-in pieces if you have a little more time to cook them through.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a nice salty, nutty flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano works great too. For a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe!
Mayonnaise: This ingredient helps keep the chicken moist and adds creaminess. If you’re watching calories, substitute with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter version.
Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are perfect for flavor. You can mix plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs if you don’t have seasoned ones. Cornflake crumbs offer a crunchy texture if you want to switch things up!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Chicken?
To keep your chicken bake juicy, it’s important to not overcook the chicken. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning stick and avoid steaming in the oven.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C) so you don’t have to guess.
- If you notice the topping browning too quickly, you can tent the dish with foil to protect it while the chicken cooks fully.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to bake, making it a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
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 with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. Then sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken.
3. Make the Garlic Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, and melted butter until everything is combined. This mixture will keep the chicken moist and packed with flavor!
4. Combine Cheesy Topping:
In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, and dried parsley (if using). This will be the delightful topping for your chicken!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Spread the garlic-mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast to coat them well. Then, sprinkle the cheesy breadcrumb mixture over the top, pressing lightly to make it stick.
6. Bake:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and let it bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked (165°F or 74°C internally) and the topping to be golden and crispy.
7. Optional Broiling:
If you want an extra crispy top, switch your oven to broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just watch it closely to prevent burning!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Serve it warm and enjoy your flavorful garlic Parmesan chicken bake!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw the chicken completely before baking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick method by placing it in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water until defrosted.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken with the garlic-mayo mix and the breadcrumb topping, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra few minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it until heated evenly.
Can I Substitute Mayonnaise in This Recipe?
Yes! If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free mayo. Both will help keep the chicken moist while adding a creamy texture.
