This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs get coated in a tasty mix of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese—a simple yet mouthwatering combination.
Trust me, the aroma will have everyone rushing to the kitchen! I love serving this with some veggies on the side. It’s an easy meal that feels special—even on busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great here. If you prefer a lighter option, chicken breasts are fantastic. You can also use bone-in pieces, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling taste. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, try using olive oil instead, though you’ll miss that rich buttery flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic truly enhances the dish. If you only have garlic powder, use about 1 teaspoon instead. But fresh will give you that delicious aroma!
Parmesan Cheese: You’ll want freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor. In a pinch, pre-grated works too, but it might not melt as beautifully. Grana Padano is a good substitute.
Seasonings: Dried Italian seasoning adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, using a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme will work just as well. Feel free to experiment to fit your taste!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to avoid undercooking or drying it out. It’s important to maintain the right temperature and time.
- Start by flattening the chicken slightly for even cooking. This helps breast pieces cook as quickly as thighs.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is the safest way to know your chicken is done.
- If you opt for broiling at the end, keep a close eye. It takes only a couple of minutes to turn golden, and it can burn quickly.
- Let the chicken rest after baking! This keeps it juicy by allowing the juices to redistribute.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This garlic Parmesan chicken bake will take about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. After baking, let it rest for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare the Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to lightly grease a baking dish—this helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier!
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Season both sides with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Make sure it’s well-coated!
3. Make the Butter-Garlic Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Give it a good stir so that everything is mixed evenly.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take your seasoned chicken and place it in the prepared baking dish. Brush the butter and garlic mixture evenly over the chicken pieces, ensuring each piece gets a delicious coat!
5. Add More Cheese:
Now sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the chicken. This will create a lovely golden crust while baking!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. Watch for the chicken to become golden and bubbly! You’ll want to make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
7. Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness:
If you’d like a crispier topping, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn, as broiling happens quickly!
8. Let it Rest:
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like for a pop of color. Serve this delicious garlic Parmesan chicken with your favorite sides like roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or some tasty garlic bread. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using bone-in chicken, just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are excellent substitutes. For a non-dairy option, try nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor without the dairy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist.
