This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a real winner! Juicy chicken thighs are topped with a yummy mix of garlic, cheese, and herbs, making every bite full of flavor.
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I often pair it with a side of veggies or some fluffy rice, and dinner is ready in no time! So delicious and simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless skinless thighs or chicken breasts work great too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon for this recipe) instead. I always go for fresh to get that punchy taste!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is key for that cheesy crust. If you don’t have Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds lots of flavor, but feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like rosemary or thyme. Dried herbs work fine, but fresh herbs are even better if you have them on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial! Here are my favorite tips to ensure it’s tender and juicy:
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let your chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to keep the juices in.
- If broiling, keep an eye on it! Broilers can burn food quickly, so monitor closely.
With these tips, you’ll have amazing chicken every time!
Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless, as preferred)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake will take about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 30-40 minutes to bake, making the total time around 50 minutes. You’ll have a delicious meal ready quickly with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and looks creamy and delicious.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the topping stick better. Place the chicken skin-side up in your prepared baking dish for even cooking.
4. Add the Topping:
Using a spoon, evenly spread the garlic Parmesan mixture over the top of each chicken thigh. Make sure you cover the tops and sides for maximum flavor. Yum!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden and bubbly.
6. Optional Broiling:
If you want that extra crispy topping, broil the chicken for about 2-3 minutes afterwards. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your easy garlic Parmesan chicken warm alongside your favorite sides like steamed veggies, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster—about 25-30 minutes should be sufficient, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that the Italian seasoning and any other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free, as some blends may contain fillers.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and garlic Parmesan mixture a few hours ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld even more!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to add a little extra melted butter or a splash of broth to keep it moist!
Feel free to ask more if you have other questions or need tips! Enjoy your cooking!
