Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that turns everyday chicken breasts into a juicy, tender meal coated in a creamy garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines familiar ingredients to create something special without a lot of fuss or extra prep.

I first made this on a whim when I had guests coming over and only a little time to cook. It quickly became a favorite in my household with many requests for it to be on the regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• Parmesan cheese: Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese makes the sauce rich and melty freshly grated Parmesan will give you the best flavor and smoother texture
• Unsalted butter: Gives you control over the seasoning and works perfectly to bind the flavors in the sauce
• Fresh garlic: Adds a sharp and fragrant punch if unavailable garlic powder can be used as a handy substitute
• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brightens the sauce and adds a fresh herbal note dried parsley will work
• Honey: Adds a subtle sweetness balancing the savory garlic and cheese can be omitted if you prefer
• Dijon mustard: Lends a mild tangy depth other mustard varieties can replace it depending on your preference
• Italian seasoning: Blends traditional herbs for that classic Italian flavor profile
• Red pepper flakes: Add optional heat and complexity leave them out or replace with cayenne for a stronger kick
• Chicken breasts: Halved to thin cutlets cook quickly and stay tender chicken tenders or thighs are good substitutes but verify they reach 165°F internally
• Fresh squeezed lemon juice: Brightens and tenderizes the chicken avoid bottled juice as it is highly acidic and lacks fresh flavor
• Avocado oil: Tolerates high heat without smoking and keeps the chicken juicy light olive oil is a good alternative
• Garlic powder and onion powder: Build layers of flavor and complement fresh ingredients nicely
• Paprika: Contributes a mild smoky or sweet flavor depending on the type used choose according to taste
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Bring everything together by seasoning the chicken beautifully

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is hot enough to cook the chicken quickly and give you a nice crust without drying it out.

Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

In a mixing bowl combine grated Parmesan cheese with softened unsalted butter minced fresh garlic chopped parsley a touch of honey Dijon mustard Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and creamy creating the rich coating for your chicken. Set this aside while you prepare the chicken.

Season the Chicken:

Arrange the halved chicken breasts on a 9 by 13 inch baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Drizzle fresh squeezed lemon juice and avocado oil all over the chicken pieces. Then sprinkle garlic powder onion powder paprika kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper evenly over both sides of each chicken cutlet. Use your hands or tongs to pat the seasonings in ensuring every inch is well coated.

Coat the Chicken with Sauce:

Spoon the prepared garlic Parmesan sauce generously over the top of each chicken piece. You can use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the sauce evenly. The sauce will melt into the chicken as it bakes giving it rich flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

Bake Until Perfect:

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature which should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safety and juiciness.

Optional Broil for Color:

If you want a golden brown finish on top switch the oven to broil on high and broil the chicken for 1 to 2 minutes. Watch it closely so it does not burn. This quick broil brings out a wonderful caramelized texture on the sauce.

Parmesan cheese is my favorite part of this recipe. There is something magical about how it blends with butter and garlic to create that rich and luscious coating. One time my family gathered on a chilly evening and this chicken paired with roasted veggies became an instant comfort food that we all reminisced about for weeks.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within three days for the best taste and texture. If you want to freeze leftovers wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer safe container or bag for up to three months. To reheat thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven until heated through avoiding microwaving which can make the chicken rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Parmesan is unavailable fresh or grated Italian hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano make excellent alternatives that bring their own unique flavors. You can swap butter for avocado oil or light olive oil for a dairy free option. If you do not have Dijon mustard a milder or spicier mustard variety will still work just adjust to taste. Paprika can be replaced with smoked chipotle powder for a smoky kick or omitted for a more straightforward flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs well with creamy mashed potatoes buttery pasta or fragrant rice. For a lighter meal serve alongside steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans or a crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette. To stretch it out add crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls on the side.

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is easy to make and full of flavor, perfect for weeknights or company. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, the chicken and sauce can be prepared separately up to 24 hours in advance. Combine and bake when ready.

→ What chicken cuts work best?

Chicken breasts, tenders, or thighs can be used. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.

→ Are there cheese alternatives to Parmesan?

Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella can be substituted depending on preference.

→ Is mustard required in the dish?

Mustard adds subtle depth but can be omitted without losing overall flavor balance.

→ Can butter be replaced in the sauce?

Avocado oil or light olive oil work well as alternatives to butter.

→ What sides complement this chicken?

Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed broccoli, garden salad, and crusty breads are excellent pairings.

→ Is air fryer cooking possible?

Yes, cook at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring chicken reaches 165°F internally.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months; best enjoyed after reheating thoroughly.