Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a creamy, garlicky sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and simple preparation. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish to impress friends, this bake delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a gourmet-style dinner ready in no time.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe pairs well with various sides like salads or roasted vegetables, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this savory chicken bake, making it an excellent choice for family meals.
• Creamy Texture: The mayonnaise-based sauce keeps the chicken moist and tender throughout the baking process.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13-inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and provides ample space for the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps achieve accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Topping

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Garnish (Optional)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For Greasing

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking when you’re ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking during baking.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together:
1. Mayonnaise
2. Grated Parmesan cheese
3. Minced garlic
4. Italian seasoning
5. Salt
6. Black pepper

Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken Breasts

Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken with Sauce

Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Ensure they are fully covered to lock in flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Add Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the mayonnaise-coated chicken breasts for a crunchy topping.

Step 7: Bake in the Oven

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked, reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C), while tops turn golden brown.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute within the chicken.

Step 9: Garnish and Enjoy!

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving this delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delicious and versatile dish that can be paired with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the richness of the chicken.
• Mixed Greens: A light salad with assorted greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette will add freshness to your plate.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Veggies: Roasting vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers brings out their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
• Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or roasted broccoli tossed in garlic and olive oil adds a nutritious touch.

On a Bed of Rice or Quinoa

• Garlic Herb Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
• Lemon Quinoa: Quinoa dressed with lemon juice and parsley provides a zesty contrast.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the chicken bake.
• Focaccia: A flavorful addition that can be enjoyed on its own or used to mop up the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Perfecting your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and high-quality Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking time; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) but not exceed it to avoid dryness.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain moisture.
• Customize Seasoning: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences—add more herbs or spices for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Pairing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake with the right side dishes can enhance your meal even further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes whipped with garlic create a comforting side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a bright, healthy contrast.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the dish.
4. Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables and herbs makes for a light accompaniment.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes provide a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
6. Creamed Spinach: Rich creamed spinach pairs nicely, adding creaminess alongside the chicken’s texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and sometimes even the simplest recipes can go wrong. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake.

• Bold phrase: Not Preheating the Oven
  Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven is heated to the correct temperature before placing your dish inside.
• Bold phrase: Skipping the Greasing Step
  Not greasing the baking dish can cause your chicken to stick and tear apart when serving. Use olive oil or cooking spray to lightly coat your dish before adding the chicken.
• Bold phrase: Overcooking the Chicken
  Overcooking can make your chicken dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Bold phrase: Ignoring Ingredient Temperatures
  Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge can affect how they blend together. Allow ingredients like mayonnaise and cheese to sit at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Bold phrase: Not Letting It Rest After Baking
  Cutting into your chicken immediately after baking can cause juices to escape, leading to dryness. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

• If freezing, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid for faster warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delicious dinner option featuring juicy chicken covered in a creamy garlic sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes! You can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar cheese if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake spicier?

To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños into the mayonnaise mixture before spreading it on the chicken.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before using in this recipe for even cooking and flavor absorption.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers into the baking dish for added nutrition and flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. Its versatility allows you to customize with different cheeses or vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, where juicy chicken breasts meet a rich, creamy garlic sauce and are topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, as it’s not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone asking for more. Pair it with fresh salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal that pleases both kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and coat them evenly with the sauce.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the chicken.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
7. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg