Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple, delicious dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, a generous layer of garlic, and a buttery parmesan crust that gets perfectly golden in the oven. The combination of flavors is comforting and familiar, making it a go-to meal when you want something tasty without too much fuss.
I love making this dish when I want an easy dinner that still feels special. The garlic and parmesan give the chicken such a rich, savory kick, and I often sneak in some herbs like parsley or oregano to brighten it up. It’s one of those recipes where the ingredients come together beautifully, and I usually find myself going back for seconds—sometimes even thirds!
My favorite way to serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad to balance out the richness. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want a satisfying meal that doesn’t take forever but tastes like you spent hours cooking. Plus, it reheats well, so leftovers are always a treat the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is great for even cooking and tenderness. If you prefer, thighs can be used for juicier meat, but cooking time may vary.
Parmesan cheese: This gives the dish its signature flavor and crust. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a good option, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free choice.
Italian-style breadcrumbs: These add crunch and seasoning. If unavailable, plain breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs work well. For a gluten-free version, try crushed gluten-free crackers or panko.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of cream cheese.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brightens the sauce. Garlic powder in the breadcrumb mix adds more flavor. If fresh isn’t an option, extra garlic powder can be used cautiously.
How Do I Get a Crispy, Golden Crust on the Chicken?
The key to a crispy Parmesan crust is searing the coated chicken before baking:
- Make sure the chicken is dry before coating to help the breadcrumbs stick.
- Dip the chicken first in melted butter; this adds flavor and helps create a golden crust.
- Press the breadcrumb and cheese mixture firmly onto the chicken breasts so it sticks well.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat before adding chicken — it should sizzle immediately.
- Sear each side for 3–4 minutes without moving the chicken to build a good crust.
- Once seared, finish cooking in the oven with sauce to keep the chicken juicy.
Taking your time on the sear step will reward you with a crisp, flavorful crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet or baking dish – I recommend this so you can sear on the stovetop and finish baking in one pan, minimizing cleanup.
- Mixing bowls – useful for combining the breadcrumb mixture and sauce ingredients.
- Meat thermometer – to check that the chicken reaches 165°F and is fully cooked.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the sauce and scraping bits from the pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cooked bacon bits or crumbled cooked sausage for a meaty twist that adds richness.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or mozzarella and fontina for a melty, cheesy topping—perfect if you love extra gooeyness.
- Mix in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to incorporate more veggies and variety.
- Replace herbs with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile that pairs well with roasted veggies.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Coating:
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and sear the chicken, plus an additional 20-25 minutes baking time. So, plan for around 40 minutes from start to finish for a delicious and creamy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Coat the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish or ovenproof skillet. In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, Italian breadcrumbs, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry. Dip each one into the melted butter, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly for 3-4 minutes.
4. Bake and Finish:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over each piece. Transfer the skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bright finish. Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the coating stick better.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk with a bit of cream cheese for a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich and creamy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the sauce creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Swap the Italian-style breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the crispy crust without gluten.
