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There’s something truly comforting about a home-cooked meal that’s simple yet packed with flavor. When life gets busy, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is the perfect dish to turn to. With its crispy Parmesan crust and aromatic garlic, it’s guaranteed to bring joy to your dinner table and make everyone ask for seconds.
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How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken in 5 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A simple and flavorful baked chicken dish coated with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup dry bread crumbs
⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
Instructions
1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a bowl, blend the olive oil and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, basil, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the oil mixture, then in the bread crumb mixture.
5. Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, and top with any remaining bread crumb mixture.
6. Bake 30 minutes in the preheated oven, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor.
Adding fresh chopped parsley after baking enhances color and taste.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes before baking.
Let chicken rest a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
To create this flavorful dish, gather the following:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Dry bread crumbs | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ⅔ cup |
| Dried basil leaves | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
| Skinless, boneless chicken breasts | 6 halves |
These simple pantry staples come together effortlessly to produce a restaurant-quality meal that’s also healthy and satisfying.
Preparing the Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic to create a flavorful base for your chicken.
- In another bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and black pepper for a perfect crispy coating.
- Dip each chicken breast first into the olive oil and garlic mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the bread crumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken breasts neatly in your baking dish.
- Sprinkle any remaining bread crumb mixture evenly over the top.
Bake for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, no longer pink inside, and the juices run clear.
Tips for Success and Flavor Enhancement
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and a more crispy crust.
- Adding fresh chopped parsley after baking enhances both color and taste.
- For extra garlic punch, add a little garlic powder to the bread crumb mixture.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices and keep it tender.
Why This Recipe Works so Well
- The olive oil and garlic mixture adds moisture and a rich flavor base to the chicken.
- Parmesan and bread crumbs create a satisfying crunchy coating without the need for frying.
- Dried basil and pepper add subtle herbal notes that complement the savory profile.
- Baking keeps preparation hands-off and the dish lower in fat compared to fried alternatives.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic roasted potatoes.
- Fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
FAQ about Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, skinless boneless thighs will work great and add a bit more juiciness.
Q: How can I make this gluten-free?
A: Swap regular bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead and bake later?
A: Absolutely. Coat the chicken, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Conclusion
Your go-to baked garlic Parmesan chicken recipe awaits. It’s effortlessly easy, delightfully flavorful, and perfect for transforming simple ingredients into a meal you’ll love to share. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade goodness that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Feel ready to make this recipe your own? Gather your ingredients, slide that chicken into the oven, and get ready for a warm, cheesy, garlicky delight that’s sure to become a weekly favorite.
Enjoy your delicious Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken!