Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and a creamy, garlicky sauce, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready to bake.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese creates a rich sauce that keeps the chicken juicy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with salads, rice, or vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Easy Cleanup: With all ingredients baked in one dish, cleanup is a breeze!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather all necessary tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balanced flavors in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake.

Ingredients

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal.

For the Chicken Bake

• 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, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking. This step helps achieve a golden crust on your chicken.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes the chicken so flavorful.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they are evenly spaced for uniform cooking.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully covered. This layer locks in moisture while adding flavor.

Step 6: Add Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs uniformly over the mayonnaise-coated chicken breasts. This will give your bake a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

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

Step 8: Let It Rest

Once cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 9: Garnish & Serve

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving if desired. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is not only delicious but also versatile. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and can be presented in several ways to elevate your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the creamy chicken.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Steamed Rice: Plain or flavored rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs the garlicky sauce well.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken on a bed of spaghetti or penne for a hearty meal that’s easy to enjoy.

As Sandwiches

• Chicken Sandwiches: Slice the baked chicken and serve it on toasted buns with lettuce and tomato for a quick lunch option.
• Wraps: Roll the chicken in a tortilla with fresh veggies and sauces for a portable meal.

With Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrients to your plate.
• Steamed Broccoli: This simple side provides crunch and balances the richness of the chicken bake.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

For an exceptional Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, follow these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and real Parmesan cheese enhance flavor significantly compared to their dried counterparts.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the internal temperature; cooking until it reaches 165°F (74°C) ensures juicy chicken without dryness.
• Add Extra Flavor: Try incorporating lemon juice or zest into the mayonnaise mixture for an added zing.
• Breadcrumb Choice Matters: Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunchiness that elevates the texture of your dish.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain its juices, making each bite more flavorful.
• Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also adds a touch of freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

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

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that matches well with chicken.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs offers a healthy twist.
3. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add a crunch that contrasts nicely with soft chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances rich flavors in the main dish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is sweet and buttery, complementing savory chicken perfectly.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with garlicky flavors while adding nutritional benefits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few common mistakes can affect the outcome of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake. Here are some tips to ensure you get it right every time.

• Skipping the greasing step: Not greasing the baking dish can lead to sticking. Always lightly grease your dish with olive oil to make serving easier.
• Overloading on garlic: While garlic adds flavor, too much can overpower the dish. Stick to 4 cloves for a balanced taste.
• Not checking chicken doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be risky. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Forgetting to rest the chicken: Cutting into the chicken too soon can result in dry meat. Let it rest for about 5 minutes after baking for juiciness.
• Inconsistent breadcrumb coverage: Uneven breadcrumb distribution can lead to some portions being soggy. Spread them uniformly over the sauce-coated chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and warm until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use other cheeses in my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?

Yes, you can substitute or mix Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

You can use low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a base for fewer calories without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything a day before and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Is there an alternative to breadcrumbs?

Yes, you can use crushed crackers or even almond flour as a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs.

Final Thoughts

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different cheeses based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

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

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, a dish that transforms tender chicken breasts into a creamy, savory delight. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this easy-to-make bake features a luscious garlic sauce made from mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. In just over an hour, you can serve a comforting meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Serve it alongside fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or fluffy rice for a nutritious and satisfying dinner.

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Ingredients

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• 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
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for greasing)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish and spread the sauce mixture evenly over them.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for added texture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden brown.
7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving; garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 110mg