Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple, tasty dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts coated in a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. The golden, crispy topping is made from Parmesan cheese mixed with bread crumbs, adding a perfect crunch to every bite. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, full of classic flavors that are easy to love.
I always enjoy making this recipe because it comes together quickly, and the garlic and Parmesan combo never fails to impress. One of my favorite tricks is to add a little extra garlic to boost the flavor or sprinkle in some Italian herbs for a fresh twist. It feels like comfort food but still has a bit of a special touch that makes it great for both weeknights and casual dinners with friends.
I like to serve this chicken bake with a side of roasted veggies or over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, so the sauce can soak into everything. It’s one of those meals where you want to scoop up every last bit of the sauce on your plate! Sharing this dish always brings smiles, and I’ve noticed it’s an easy way to get even picky eaters excited about dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts work best for even cooking and quick prep. If you prefer, thighs could be used for a juicier, slightly fattier option.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps create that crispy topping. You can try Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick.
Seasoned bread crumbs: These give a crunchy crust. If you don’t have seasoned crumbs, mix plain bread crumbs with garlic powder, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk, but the texture won’t be quite as thick.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings punchy flavor. Garlic powder works in a pinch but fresh is best for brightness.
Fresh herbs: Parsley adds color and freshness. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs like Italian seasoning can be used instead.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy and the Sauce Creamy Without Overcooking?
Getting a nice golden crust on the chicken while keeping it juicy and finishing it in a creamy sauce takes attention but is easy with a few steps:
- Pat chicken dry and season well. Dredge in bread crumb mix firmly so it sticks well.
- Heat olive oil so it’s shimmering but not smoking, then add chicken. Cook 3-4 minutes per side to brown but not cook through.
- Remove chicken and sauté garlic quickly—don’t burn it!
- Deglaze the pan to catch all flavorful bits, then add cream and broth, letting sauce thicken on a low simmer before returning chicken.
- Finish cooking in the oven—this gentle heat keeps chicken tender and lets sauce thicken even more.
Using an oven-safe skillet lets you move smoothly from stovetop to oven, saving steps and dishes. Keep an eye on the chicken’s internal temp to avoid drying out—165°F (74°C) is ideal.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan – I love using it because it goes from stovetop to oven seamlessly and promotes even browning.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for combining bread crumbs, Parmesan, and herbs.
- Measuring spoons and cups – helpful for adding exact amounts of cream, broth, and seasonings.
- Cooking thermometer – ensures your chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Top with cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Swap lemon slices for a splash of white wine in the sauce to add depth.
- Use shredded mozzarella or gouda instead of Parmesan for different cheesy flavors.
- Add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a colorful, veggie-packed twist.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- Cherry tomatoes (optional, about 8-10)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So in total, you should plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts well with salt and pepper so they’re flavorful.
2. Make the Coating and Brown the Chicken:
Mix the Parmesan cheese, seasoned bread crumbs, and Italian seasoning in a shallow bowl. Press each chicken breast into this mixture so it sticks well. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side). Take the chicken out and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the pan bottom to lift up all the tasty bits. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in mozzarella cheese (if using), parsley, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes.
4. Combine and Bake:
Place the chicken breasts back in the skillet. Add lemon slices and cherry tomatoes around the chicken. Spoon some sauce over the top. Put the skillet in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked inside (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the skillet out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve. This goes wonderfully with roasted vegetables, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up all the delicious sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken straight away can result in uneven cooking and longer bake times.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the chicken tender and the sauce creamy.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be quite as thick and rich. To avoid curdling, heat gently and don’t boil the sauce.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs nicely with roasted vegetables, pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich sauce.
