Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple yet extraordinary dinner that transforms everyday chicken into a juicy, flavorful meal with a luscious garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. It delivers bold taste without complicated steps and is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting homemade dish that feels special.

I first made this on a quiet weeknight when I wanted something easy but tasty. Now everyone in my family asks for it regularly especially when fresh parsley is available

Ingredients

• Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese: for that sharp nutty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and tastes brighter if you can grab some at the store
• Unsalted butter: which lets you control the salt and adds creamy richness to the sauce
• Fresh garlic: for pungent, delicious depth. Garlic powder can substitute but fresh makes a big difference
• Chopped fresh parsley: for a fresh herbal note and color. Dried parsley works in a pinch
• Honey: adds subtle sweetness balancing the savory flavors
• Dijon mustard: for a mild tang that deepens the sauce. Use any other mustard if needed but Dijon is my preference
• Italian seasoning: which brings familiar herb flavors that boost the chicken
• Red pepper flakes: are optional and add a little heat if you like it. Cayenne works for a stronger kick
• Chicken breasts: halved or tenders or thighs work too. Thinner cut lets it cook evenly and quickly but choose your favorite
• Fresh squeezed lemon juice: to brighten and tenderize the chicken. Bottled lemon juice is too acidic and less flavorful, better to omit if fresh is not available
• Avocado oil: for high heat cooking. Light olive oil is a great substitute
• Garlic powder and onion powder: which layer in extra subtle savory notes
• Paprika: smoked or sweet, depending on your taste preference. I stick with sweet paprika for a warm background flavor
• Kosher salt and black pepper: for seasoning and balance

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This heat level ensures the chicken cooks quickly and the sauce browns nicely without drying out the meat.

Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

In a mixing bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, melted unsalted butter, minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, a spoonful of honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you are using them. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated. This mixture will become the flavorful coating for your chicken.

Season the Chicken:

Line a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place your chicken breasts or cutlets on the baking sheet. Drizzle fresh squeezed lemon juice and avocado oil over the chicken ensuring all pieces are covered. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken pieces for a full seasoning.

Coat the Chicken with the Sauce:

Transfer your prepared garlic Parmesan sauce over the chicken. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the sauce evenly, making sure every piece gets a generous coating.

Bake the Chicken:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. To get a golden finish, you can broil the chicken on high for one to two minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.

I love fresh garlic the most in this dish. Its aroma fills the kitchen while cooking and makes the sauce feel so vibrant. I remember once making this recipe for a family gathering and the way the crispy golden top mingled with the creamy garlic flavor had everyone asking for seconds. It’s a simple dish that feels like a celebration on the plate.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken tender. This dish also freezes well up to three months if wrapped tightly with plastic or foil and placed in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Parmesan, Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheeses work great. They also give a wonderful savory punch. Butter can be swapped with avocado oil or light olive oil if you need a dairy-free option or prefer less saturated fat. Chicken thighs are a good alternative to breasts as they stay juicy and flavorful but will need slightly longer to bake. Leaving out Dijon mustard is okay too. The sauce will just be a bit less tangy but still delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or cooked pasta for a comforting meal. For lighter sides, steamed broccoli, a crisp garden salad, or roasted vegetables brighten the plate and add freshness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are a nice touch to soak up any extra sauce on the plate.

Enjoy this easy, flavorful chicken that feels special but comes together with minimal fuss. Leftovers reheat well and make great quick lunches.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, chicken and sauce can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Combine and bake just before serving.

→ Is it necessary to use chicken breasts?

No, other cuts such as tenders or thighs work well as long as they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

→ What alternatives are there for Parmesan cheese?

Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella can be substituted for Parmesan with good results.

→ Can the butter be replaced with another fat?

Yes, avocado oil or light olive oil serve as good alternatives to butter in this dish.

→ Which sides complement this chicken best?

Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad are excellent pairings.

→ Is it possible to cook this in an air fryer?

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

→ 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.