This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a tasty dish that anyone can whip up! Juicy chicken covered in a buttery garlic and cheese mix, it’s all baked to perfection.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs work well too. They’re flavorful and remain moist during baking.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. If you don’t have any, pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a dairy-free option) can also work! Just note that the flavor will change slightly.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess to the mixture. If you prefer, Greek yogurt can be a healthier option with a similar texture. You could also use a dairy-free mayonnaise if you’re avoiding dairy.
Olive Oil: This is used to grease the baking dish and add richness to the dish. Feel free to swap it for melted butter or any other cooking oil you have on hand.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Comes Out Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is proper seasoning and cooking time. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better.
- Season both sides! It’s easy to forget the underside, but balanced flavors come from all sides.
- Cook until it’s just done. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can lead to dry chicken.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken moist.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 40 minutes! Perfect for a busy weeknight but tasty enough for special occasions!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasonings stick better. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dried Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken to give it lots of flavor.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir everything together until it’s well blended and looks creamy. This is going to be the delicious topping for your chicken!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Now, lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat in the prepared baking dish. Take the garlic Parmesan mixture and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover them well.
5. Drizzle and Bake:
For an added golden and crispy finish, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the top of the chicken and cheese mixture. Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly!
6. Rest and Serve:
After taking the dish out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside! Finally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley if you’d like a pop of color, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious garlic Parmesan chicken bake!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until fully thawed. Pat dry before seasoning.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise or Sour Cream?
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or sour cream. It maintains a similar creaminess while adding a bit of protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may want to cover it with foil to keep it from drying out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can enhance the dish. Toss them in the baking dish alongside the chicken and adjust the baking time as needed until both the veggies and chicken are cooked through.
