This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love! With juicy chicken baked to perfection and a creamy garlic parmesan sauce, it’s comfort food at its best.
You can whip this up in no time, and the smell of garlic will have everyone gathering in the kitchen! I always serve it with a side of veggies or over pasta for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute chicken thighs. Thighs have more flavor and won’t dry out as easily.
Olive Oil: This is great for cooking the garlic and browning the chicken. If you need an alternative, you can use melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for this recipe if using fresh isn’t an option.
Heavy Cream: This adds rich creaminess to the dish. You can replace it with half-and-half, or for a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk for creaminess without the extra fat.
Cheese: Parmesan and mozzarella are the stars here. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. Or use vegan cheese alternatives if you’re avoiding dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Tender?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy and tender in this dish, follow these simple tips:
- Browning: Sear the chicken in olive oil for just 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and gives flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Since the chicken will continue to cook in the oven, make sure it’s only lightly browned when you transfer it to the baking dish.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The chicken is perfect when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. This helps prevent drying out.
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook the chicken beautifully as soon as you place it inside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want them to be lightly browned, but they don’t need to be fully cooked just yet. Once browned, remove them from the heat.
4. Make the Cream Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well to create a smooth sauce.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the browned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken to cover it well.
6. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken and sauce, making sure to cover it evenly.
7. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and that the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take it out, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve hot. Enjoy your decadent and creamy garlic Parmesan chicken bake!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully in this recipe. They are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked, making them a great alternative.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option, or mix Greek yogurt with a bit of milk to achieve a similar creamy texture. Just whisk it well to combine.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step in advance. Just cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just adjust the cooking time as it may need a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
