Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, featuring incredibly tender and juicy chicken coated in a luscious garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. This recipe is unbelievably easy to make and bursting with flavor!
Quick and Easy: Dinner in Under 30 Minutes
This Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create an extraordinary dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The absence of breading makes it a lighter option, allowing the seasonings and the inherent flavor of the chicken to truly shine. It’s a simple weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat, effortlessly pairing with a variety of side dishes without requiring extensive preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the garlic Parmesan sauce separately up to 24 hours in advance. When you’re ready to cook, simply coat the chicken with the sauce and bake it according to the recipe instructions.
Must I Use Chicken Breasts?
Not necessarily. While chicken breasts are a popular choice, you can use any cut of chicken you prefer. Chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces will work. Just be sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
What Cheese Can I Use Instead of Parmesan?
If you’re looking for a Parmesan cheese substitute, consider using Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even mozzarella cheese. Each of these cheeses will add a unique flavor profile to the dish. Asiago has a slightly nutty flavor, Pecorino Romano is saltier and sharper than Parmesan, and mozzarella offers a mild, creamy taste.
Is Dijon Mustard Essential?
No, Dijon mustard is not strictly necessary. While it adds a subtle depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients, you can certainly leave it out if you prefer. If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you could try substituting it with a small amount of yellow mustard or even a touch of horseradish for a bolder flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Butter?
Yes, you can. If you’re looking to reduce the amount of butter in the recipe, you can substitute it with avocado oil or light olive oil. These oils have a milder flavor than butter and are a healthier alternative. Use the same amount of oil as you would butter to maintain the recipe’s consistency.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. For a classic pairing, consider serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a fresh garden salad would be excellent choices. Don’t forget the bread! Dinner rolls, garlic bread, or crusty bread are always a welcome addition to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I Cook This Chicken in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Air frying is a great way to achieve crispy, evenly cooked chicken. To cook Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken in the air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space around each piece for air to circulate. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftover Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. When reheating, it’s best to bake the chicken in the oven or air fryer to maintain its texture and flavor. You can also microwave it, but be aware that it may become slightly less crispy.
Ingredients Needed for Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
(See the full recipe card below for complete measurements and instructions)
- Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese: Store-bought grated cheese works well, but freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly and offer a fresher, more intense flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter gives you greater control over the saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter, you may want to reduce the amount of salt you add later in the recipe.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic is highly recommended for its pungent aroma and robust flavor. However, if you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, garlic powder or jarred minced garlic can be used as a substitute. Adjust the amount to taste, as garlic powder has a more concentrated flavor.
- Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and freshness to the dish. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley can be used, but keep in mind that dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor, so you’ll need less.
- Honey: The honey adds a subtle sweetness and warmth that complements the savory flavors of the garlic and Parmesan. If you’re not a fan of honey, you can omit it altogether or substitute it with a small amount of maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard provides a tangy, slightly spicy note that balances the richness of the butter and cheese. If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use a spicy brown mustard or even a small amount of yellow mustard.
- Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that adds a complex layer of flavor to the dish. If you’d like to make your own blend, you can combine dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
- Red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the dish. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit them altogether. Or, if you want a slightly stronger heat, replace them with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Chicken breasts: Halved to make 4 cutlets. Buying thin-cut chicken breasts eliminates the need to slice them. You can also use chicken tenders or chicken thighs, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Fresh squeezed lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the chicken and adds a bright, citrusy flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be too acidic and lack true lemon flavor. If fresh lemons aren’t available, it’s best to omit the lemon juice altogether.
- Avocado oil: Avocado oil is a great choice for cooking at high heat due to its high smoke point. Light olive oil works well as an alternative.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These powders enhance the flavor profile, complementing the fresh garlic and adding depth.
- Paprika: Smoked or sweet paprika can be used depending on the flavor profile you prefer. Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth, while sweet paprika provides a subtle sweetness and color.
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to create the most flavorful Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and set aside.
- Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
- Coat the chicken with lemon juice, avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure both sides are evenly coated.
- Transfer the garlic Parmesan sauce to the chicken. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to evenly coat each piece of chicken with the sauce.
- Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: For a golden-brown top, broil the chicken on high for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you enjoyed this Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe, here are a few more you might like:
- Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meal
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pizza
- Garlic Parmesan Beef Pasta
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Fettuccine Alfredo
- Crock Pot Garlic Parmesan Potatoes
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe
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Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
-
½
cup
grated or shredded Parmesan cheese -
½
cup
unsalted butter, melted -
5
garlic cloves, minced -
1
Tablespoon
chopped parsley -
½
teaspoon
honey -
½
teaspoon
dijon mustard -
1
teaspoon
Italian seasoning -
½
teaspoon
red pepper flakes (optional) -
2
chicken breasts, halved to make 4 cutlets -
2
Tablespoons
fresh squeezed lemon juice -
1
Tablespoon
avocado oil (or olive oil) -
1
teaspoon
garlic powder -
1
teaspoon
onion powder -
1
teaspoon
paprika -
1
teaspoon
kosher salt -
½
teaspoon
black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
- Place the chicken on a parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking sheet.
- Coat the chicken with lemon juice, avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Transfer the sauce to the chicken and coat evenly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Broil on high for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
