This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is such a winner! Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a tasty mix of garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs, then baked to perfection.
I love how simple it is to put together; just mix the goodness, toss it on top of the chicken, and let the oven do its magic. Bonus: my kitchen smells amazing while it cooks!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless thighs for more juiciness, but chicken breasts work great too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try skinless chicken tenders!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is always the best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute garlic powder, using about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth to the dish. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier texture.
Breadcrumbs: I like using Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor, but plain breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work as good substitutes. You can also use panko for extra crunch!
How Do You Get a Crispy Topping?
Getting that perfect crispy topping is all about mixing and baking! Here are a couple of tips:
- Make sure to blend the breadcrumbs with melted butter; it helps them brown nicely in the oven.
- Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken for better adhesion.
- Baking at a high temperature (400°F) gives you that lovely golden crunch—just keep an eye on it!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned or plain)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake! Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined and looks delicious.
3. Get the Chicken Ready:
Next, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the topping stick better. Place the chicken pieces in the prepared baking dish.
4. Add the Topping:
Now it’s time to layer on that tasty breadcrumb mixture! Evenly spread it over the chicken, pressing gently so it sticks well.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the topping to be golden and crispy.
6. Finish and Serve:
If you want to add a pop of color, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely beforehand. The safest method is to place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. You can also use the quick thaw method by sealing the chicken in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers or panko as an alternative!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken with the garlic Parmesan topping and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What Should I Serve With This Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up that delicious garlic Parmesan flavor.
