Description
Succulent garlic parmesan chicken bake delivers Italian-inspired comfort with minimal effort. Crispy herb-coated chicken nestles in a creamy sauce, promising a delightful dinner that brings Mediterranean warmth directly to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings and Cheeses:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Other Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace by heating the oven to a moderate temperature of 375F (190C) and lightly coating a rectangular baking vessel with cooking spray.
- Carefully eliminate moisture from chicken breasts using clean paper towels, then generously season both surfaces with aromatic spices including salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herb blend.
- Create a creamy flavor-packed coating by whisking together rich mayonnaise, finely grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, fragrant olive oil, and a splash of bright lemon juice until the mixture transforms into a smooth, cohesive sauce.
- Meticulously spread the luxurious cheese and garlic mixture across each chicken breast, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- For added textural contrast, delicately sprinkle crisp panko breadcrumbs over the top of the prepared chicken.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast uncovered for approximately 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F (75C).
- Allow the chicken to rest and settle for a brief 5-minute interval, which helps redistribute internal juices and maintain moisture.
- Finish the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch of color and herbal essence.
- Present the golden-brown chicken alongside complementary sides like al dente pasta, fluffy rice, or caramelized roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Moisture Mastery: Pat chicken breasts thoroughly to remove excess water, ensuring a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in delicious flavors.
- Cheese Selection: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and melt-ability, avoiding pre-packaged shredded cheese which can be less flavorful and have added anti-caking agents.
- Crispiness Technique: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs sparingly for a light, crunchy texture that adds delightful contrast without overwhelming the chicken’s natural taste.
- Temperature Precision: Always use a meat thermometer to check internal chicken temperature, preventing overcooking and maintaining juicy, tender meat that’s safe to eat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg