This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a winner! Juicy chicken thighs get a yummy garlic and Parmesan coating, making dinner super simple and tasty.
You won’t believe how quick it is to toss everything in the oven. While it’s baking, you can put your feet up and relax—you deserve it! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, go for chicken breast, but keep an eye on the baking time as they cook faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the coating stick. If you need an alternative, avocado oil or melted butter works well, giving you a slightly different flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use garlic powder—1 teaspoon should do the trick! But fresh is truly the way to go.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated is key for this recipe. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a nut-based Parmesan or skip the cheese altogether, ensuring you season your chicken well.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning is great, but feel free to mix it up! Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can elevate the flavor, making it even more aromatic.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Comes Out Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the preparation and baking method. Here are some tips:
- Marinating the chicken in the olive oil mixture for at least 30 minutes (or longer in the fridge) helps lock in flavor and moisture.
- Aim for a single layer in your baking dish. This ensures even cooking.
- Using a food thermometer is the best way to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
- If you opt to broil at the end, watch closely! Broiling can go from golden to burnt quickly.
These tips should help you achieve that tender and tasty chicken bake—just remember to take your time and enjoy the cooking process!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
For the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and approximately 30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious meal in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and becomes nice and crispy on top.
2. Mix the Flavorful Coating:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir well until everything is combined into a delicious paste.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Grab a baking dish and lay the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a single layer. Make sure they don’t overlap, so they cook evenly!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Spread the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over each piece of chicken. Use your fingers or a spatula to press down lightly so the mixture sticks well. This will help create a deliciously cheesy crust while baking.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now, pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake the chicken uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
6. Optional Crispiness:
If you want an extra crispy top, switch to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy this simple yet delicious garlic Parmesan chicken bake with your favorite sides! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ About Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken with Skin for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just remember that chicken with skin may take a few extra minutes to cook, and the skin will become crispy and delicious as it bakes. You might also want to increase the baking time slightly while keeping an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead of 4 cloves of fresh garlic. Just mix it in with the other dry ingredients for even flavor distribution.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it gently in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic Parmesan mixture in advance and coat the chicken. Cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for more even cooking!
