Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Introduction

Few dishes can compete with the irresistible aroma of bubbling, garlicky Parmesan cheese enveloping tender pieces of chicken. This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake boasts a creamy, savory sauce blanketing golden, juicy chicken – the kind of weeknight dinner that’s as fuss-free as it is crowd-pleasing. It’s a one-pan wonder that maximizes flavor while minimizing mess, making it perfect for busy families or anyone craving comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

This recipe stands out because it’s the best of both worlds: classic flavors with no complicated steps. The magic comes from a buttery garlic-Parmesan mixture that caramelizes in the oven, coating each piece of chicken in a golden crust. Serve it with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables for a meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.

Prepping Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

The key to exceptional results is even prep. Use a sharp knife or a handy Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to quickly dice onions or slice fresh garlic, ensuring uniform sautéing and balanced flavor distribution.

For the chicken, opt for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs. Lay them flat on a Bamboo Cutting Board for safe trimming and even seasoning. Having everything prepped before you begin lets you move smoothly from pan to oven.

Building a Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

A good Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is all about that lush, flavorful sauce. Sauté fresh garlic and onions in butter, then add cream and freshly grated Parmesan. Use a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet for even heat and easy cleanup. Whisk until smooth so every bite delivers that signature cheesy goodness.

For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a Greek yogurt base for added tang and protein.

Seamless Baking and Easy Cleanup

Before transferring everything to the baking dish, line your pan with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll. This keeps the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Arrange the chicken in a single layer, pour the garlic Parmesan sauce on top, and bake until bubbly and golden. For extra crispness, switch to broil for the last couple of minutes—just keep a watchful eye!

Serving and Storing Suggestions

Pair your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake with a side of steamed green beans, pasta tossed in olive oil, or a crisp salad stored in a Bentgo Salad Container for easy lunch leftovers. Store portions in airtight containers for up to three days; reheating is simple and keeps the chicken moist thanks to the creamy sauce.

Nutrition and Serving Size

This recipe serves 4-6, with each hearty portion coming in at approximately 370 calories (before sides), featuring a balance of protein and healthy fats. It’s comforting without being heavy—a win for both flavor and nutrition.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake Recap

The Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake truly shines with its rich, robust sauce and perfectly cooked chicken. Flavorful, easy to prep, and sure to win over even picky eaters, it’s a go-to dish when you want big flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for hassle-free cleanup.
2. Pat the chicken pieces dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Arrange in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
3. In a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and ¾ cup Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup Parmesan evenly over the top for a golden finish.
6. Spritz the top lightly with an Olive Oil Sprayer, then bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking for precise results.
7. If desired, broil for 2-3 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly browned.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes