This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a flavorful dish loaded with tender chicken coated in a tasty garlic and parmesan mix. It’s so simple to make, you’ll want to serve it all the time!
I love how this dish fills the kitchen with a yummy aroma, making everyone excited for dinner. Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish as they cook evenly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, chicken thighs work nicely too, providing extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy flavor that complements the chicken well. If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative, or you could use a blend of other hard cheeses.
Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs give the dish a fantastic flavor kick. If you don’t have these on hand, you can use plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs or even crushed crackers for crunch.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness, but you can substitute it with olive oil for a healthier option. Just whisk the breadcrumbs and herbs with the oil instead of butter.
How Do I Get the Chicken Coating Extra Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy coating is all about the method. Make sure to coat your chicken breasts thoroughly after dipping them in melted butter. Here are a few tips:
- Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure a good adherence.
- Don’t crowd the baking dish; give each piece space for hot air to circulate.
- If you want an even crispier finish, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Following these steps will help you achieve a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the chicken inside tender and juicy. Enjoy the cooking process and feel free to customize the dish with your favorite herbs!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Time Needed:
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Once you’re ready, you’ll bake it for 25-30 minutes. All in all, you can expect to have this meal ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish that can comfortably fit your chicken breasts in a single layer.
2. Mix Your Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Feel free to add red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. This mixture will give your chicken a delicious crust!
3. Melt the Butter:
Melt the butter either in a microwave-safe dish or on the stove. Make sure it’s completely melted so it coats the chicken nicely!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the melted butter. Ensure both sides are well-coated in butter, which helps the breadcrumb mixture stick.
5. Bread the Chicken:
Next, press each butter-coated chicken breast into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, turning it over to ensure it’s fully coated all over. This crunchy coating is what makes the dish so tasty!
6. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Carefully place the coated chicken breasts into your greased baking dish. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as this will allow for even cooking and crispiness.
7. Bake:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it cook for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the topping is golden and crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm, ideally alongside some steamed vegetables or a nice fresh salad.
Enjoy your delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake! It’s simple, savory, and bound to be a hit at the dinner table.
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 essential to thaw them completely beforehand. Thaw in the fridge overnight or submerge in cold water in a sealed bag for a faster option. Pat them dry before proceeding with the recipe to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, you can easily make your own by mixing plain breadcrumbs with dried herbs like oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Alternatively, crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs work great too!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently in the oven to keep the breading crispy.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the breadcrumb mixture earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
