Let me tell you, garlic parmesan chicken is like a warm hug on a plate! This dish has become a go-to for me, especially on those busy weeknights when I need something quick yet delicious. The blend of rich parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Just a handful of ingredients and you’re on your way to a mouthwatering meal that feels fancy without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will be a cherished favorite in your kitchen, too!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is super important because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crust. Just imagine the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as it heats up—yum!
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mixture
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. You want that garlic to really shine through, so make sure it’s evenly distributed. This mixture is going to coat your chicken and infuse it with tons of flavor!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in the bowl with the garlic mixture. Use your hands (don’t be shy!) to coat each piece thoroughly, making sure to cover every nook and cranny. Just be careful not to drown them in the mixture; a little goes a long way! You want a nice, even layer without too much excess.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Time to transfer those beautifully coated chicken breasts into a baking dish. Make sure they’re arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Now, sprinkle that grated parmesan cheese generously over the top. I mean, who doesn’t love a cheesy crust? Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. The cheese should be melted and slightly golden—heaven!
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once your chicken is out of the oven, resist the urge to dig in right away! Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is super important because it allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite even more juicy and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Flavorful combination of garlic and parmesan that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Healthy option with lean chicken and minimal added fats
- One-pan meal that makes cleanup a breeze
- Customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs!
Tips for Success
To make your garlic parmesan chicken truly shine, here are a few handy tips that I swear by! First, don’t skimp on the garlic—if you love that robust flavor, feel free to add an extra clove or two. It really brings everything to life!
Also, make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. If they’re uneven, consider pounding them gently to even them out. And when it comes to the parmesan, I recommend using freshly grated cheese if you can. It melts beautifully and adds a richer flavor compared to the pre-shredded stuff.
Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time as ovens can vary. You want that golden cheese crust, but if you overbake, the chicken can dry out. Investing in a meat thermometer can help—chicken should hit an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of garlic parmesan chicken. You’re looking at about 320 calories, 18g of fat, 32g of protein, and just 2g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. It’s a tasty, guilt-free meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add even more flavor and juiciness. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they may need a few extra minutes.
What can I serve with garlic parmesan chicken? This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad. You can even toss some veggies in the baking dish for a complete meal!
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the chicken and garlic mixture a few hours in advance. Just coat the chicken and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers? Store your garlic parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the cheese nice and melty.
Can I make this dish gluten-free? Definitely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set to enjoy it without any modifications.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your garlic parmesan chicken fresh for later, simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days! When it’s time to enjoy those delicious leftovers, I recommend reheating them in the oven to maintain that lovely cheesy crust. Just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This way, you’ll get that just-baked flavor every time!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken: 5 Steps to a Flavorful Feast
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A flavorful dish combining chicken with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the chicken.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a side of vegetables or pasta.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: garlic parmesan chicken, chicken recipes, easy chicken dinner