Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a simple, tasty dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy garlic sauce and plenty of parmesan cheese. The chicken stays tender while the cheese melts into a golden, flavorful topping that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect when you want a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
I love making this recipe because it feels like a special dinner but comes together so easily. I usually season the chicken well before popping it in the oven, and the garlic parmesan sauce is my favorite part—rich and cheesy with just the right amount of garlic to wake up your taste buds. Plus, it makes great leftovers that reheat nicely for lunch the next day.
Whenever I serve this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake, I like to pair it with a simple green salad or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. Sometimes, I even add a side of buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that yummy sauce. It’s a dish that always feels like a little celebration at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless are best for even cooking. If you want, you can use thighs, but they’ll take a bit longer to cook and might be juicier.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and gives great flavor. If hard to find, Pecorino Romano or Asiago work well, but avoid pre-grated for best melt.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the most flavor. Garlic powder adds a nice background note, so using both layers the garlic taste well.
Chicken broth: Adds depth to the sauce. If you don’t have broth, water with a pinch of bouillon or vegetable broth works too.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and the Sauce Creamy?
Cooking chicken breast right is key to juicy results. First, sear on medium-high heat to get a golden crust — don’t skip this step as it locks in flavor. Then, slow cooking in the creamy sauce finishes it gently.
- Pat dry the chicken before seasoning to help the seasoning stick and avoid steaming.
- Sear chicken just until browned; avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Simmer the sauce gently, stirring often so the cheese melts smoothly and sauce thickens without separating.
- Bake the chicken in the sauce until cooked through to keep it moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I like using a cast-iron skillet because it heats evenly and goes from stove to oven easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – helps keep the ingredients just right.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring the sauce smoothly.
- Kitchen tongs – handy for flipping and removing the chicken.
- Oven mitts – keep your hands safe when handling hot cookware.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat or a richer flavor.
- Mix in cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky touch.
- Add sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for a fresh, colorful boost.
- For a mild spice kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Optional for Serving:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cooked pasta or rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes total cooking time (including searing and baking), making roughly 35 minutes all together. It’s a quick and comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This step builds flavor right into the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they turn a nice golden brown on each side—about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for around 30 seconds, until it smells wonderful and fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, gently stirring to combine everything. Let the sauce come to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and thyme leaves. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens just a bit, becoming creamy and irresistible.
5. Bake the Chicken in Sauce:
Carefully place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over the tops. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
6. Finish and Serve:
Take the skillet out of the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the chicken with the creamy sauce alongside cooked pasta, rice, or roasted veggies. Add cherry tomatoes if you like—they brighten things up perfectly!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare and cook the dish up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave, stirring the sauce occasionally to keep it creamy.
What Can I Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. A side of crusty bread is also great for soaking up the creamy sauce!