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This baked garlic Parmesan chicken recipe delivers tender juicy chicken coated in a rich garlic butter and Parmesan sauce that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. Without any breading, it is a lighter option that lets the seasonings really shine through. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
I first tried this recipe on a busy weeknight and loved how little effort it took but how impressive it tasted. Now it’s become a go to when I want something quick but satisfying.
Ingredients
- Grated Parmesan cheese: fresh is best for melting smoothly and deeper flavor
- Unsalted butter: allows control of saltiness and makes the sauce rich
- Fresh garlic: key for robust garlic flavor, garlic powder can be a substitute
- Chopped parsley: fresh adds brightness, dried works in a pinch
- Honey: adds subtle sweetness and balances the savory components
- Dijon mustard: adds gentle depth of flavor without overpowering
- Italian seasoning: for a herby note, homemade blends are a nice touch
- Red pepper flakes: optional for a touch of heat, cayenne if you want more kick
- Chicken breasts: halved to cut cooking time evenly, tenders or thighs work too
- Fresh squeezed lemon juice: brightens and tenderizes, avoid bottled if possible
- Avocado oil: preferred for high heat cooking, light olive oil is a solid alternative
- Garlic powder: creates extra layered flavors
- Onion powder: creates extra layered flavors
- Paprika: smoked or sweet depending on preferred flavor profile
- Kosher salt: essential for seasoning the chicken properly
- Black pepper: essential for seasoning the chicken properly
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a medium bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, unsalted butter, minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until well mixed and set this flavorful sauce aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Line a 9 by 13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the chicken breasts on the pan. Drizzle the fresh squeezed lemon juice and avocado oil evenly over the chicken pieces. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper on both sides of the chicken. Use your hands or a spoon to rub the seasonings thoroughly into the meat ensuring even coverage.
- Coat the Chicken with Sauce:
- Transfer the prepared garlic Parmesan sauce to your chicken. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the sauce evenly on top and sides of the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated with the rich mixture.
- Bake and Broil:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. For a beautiful golden top, broil on high for 1 or 2 minutes watching closely so it does not burn. Remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving.
My favorite ingredient is the fresh garlic which gives the sauce that unmistakable punch. I remember my family’s first time trying this chicken and how everyone kept asking for seconds. It really has become a recipe that always brings smiles around our dinner table.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To enjoy later, reheat gently in the oven to maintain the crispy top or microwave covered for convenience. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to three months by wrapping tightly in foil and placing in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have chicken breasts on hand, tenders or boneless thighs are great alternatives just adjust cooking time slightly. Instead of Parmesan cheese, try Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a mild mozzarella for a different melty cheese experience. Butter can be replaced with avocado or light olive oil if you want to reduce dairy or for a slightly different richness. Dijon mustard can be omitted or swapped for any mustard to suit your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or creamy risotto for a comforting feast. For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or a crisp garden salad bring freshness to the plate. Crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls soak up the garlic Parmesan sauce perfectly making every bite delicious.
Quick, flavorful, and easy to scale, this baked garlic Parmesan chicken is a weeknight winner. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce separately up to 24 hours before baking to save time.
- → Are other chicken cuts suitable for this dish?
Absolutely, chicken thighs or tenders can be used as long as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- → What cheese can replace Parmesan if unavailable?
Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella are great alternatives that provide different flavor profiles.
- → Is Dijon mustard necessary in the seasoning mix?
No, Dijon adds subtle depth but can be omitted or replaced with other mustard varieties.
- → Can butter be substituted in the garlic sauce?
Yes, avocado oil or light olive oil work well in place of butter for a lighter option.
- → What sides pair well with this baked chicken?
Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed broccoli, or fresh garden salad complement this dish nicely.
- → Is it possible to cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, cooking at 375°F for 10-15 minutes in the air fryer works; make sure chicken reaches 165°F inside.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months; best enjoyed reheated after baking.