Each time this comes out of the oven, I’m reminded of Sunday family dinners when there was nothing but laughter in the air and full bellies at the table. My kiddos absolutely love this recipe, and honestly, who can blame them? The combination of juicy chicken, savory spices, and melted parmesan cheese is tough to resist. Plus, it’s not just the taste that wins everyone over; it’s the fact that this dish radiates warmth and comfort, making it the perfect choice for any family dinner.
Another big plus is how this recipe fits neatly into our weeknight routine. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 15, it’s my little secret weapon when I need to get dinner on the table fast. And, because the ingredient list is short and sweet, it’s budget-friendly to boot. I love dishes that don’t break the bank or require a trip to a specialty store for fancy ingredients. Simple, satisfying, and economical — what more could one ask for?
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this Baked Parmesan Chicken is as forgiving as it is tasty. You don’t need to be afraid of making mistakes, because with a recipe like this, it’s hard to go wrong. So, get your apron on and dive in. I promise, it’ll be a hit, and it’ll give you plenty of time to actually sit down and enjoy dinner with the people you love. Happy cooking!
How to Make Baked Parmesan Chicken
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Ingredients:
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s warming up, mix together the salt, black pepper, and paprika to form a spice blend. Make sure to finely mince the garlic and grate your cheese.
- Lightly spray a large baking dish with avocado oil. Generously season the chicken on both sides with the spice mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Distribute the minced garlic across the chicken breasts. Follow with a healthy sprinkle of parmesan cheese, covering the tops.
- If desired, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the chicken, and give it one last light misting of avocado oil.
- Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Once cooked, remove from the oven and serve your delicious parmesan chicken hot.
- Pair with a crisp salad or your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal!
Flexible Ingredient Options for Every Cook
If you don’t have parmesan cheese, try using pecorino instead for a slightly sharper flavor. Out of paprika? Smoked paprika or chili powder can add a different dimension. Consider swapping chicken breasts for thighs to increase juiciness, and in a pinch, garlic powder can replace fresh garlic, though freshly minced is best!
The Best Accompaniments for Baked Parmesan Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or steamed asparagus. For a burst of color, consider serving it with a vibrant mixed green salad. A chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay adds the perfect finishing touch to this meal.
Using What’s in Season for Baked Parmesan Chicken
During summer, consider adding thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant to the baking dish for added texture and taste. In winter, roasted butternut squash or brussels sprouts make excellent seasonal accompaniments. For spring, fresh green peas or lightly sautéed spring onions can bring a fresh twist to the dish.
Cooking Hacks to Elevate Baked Parmesan Chicken
Ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian herbs for an hour or two before baking. Additionally, a squeeze of fresh lemon over the cooked chicken just before serving enhances the flavors beautifully.
Preserving Baked Parmesan Chicken for Later Enjoyment
Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a low oven temperature or microwave to prevent the chicken from drying out. Alternatively, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to two months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQ:
What can I use instead of garlic?
If you find yourself without fresh garlic, garlic powder or garlic paste are suitable alternatives. Keep in mind that garlic powder has a more concentrated flavor, so use sparingly. Roasted garlic can also offer a milder, sweet garlic flavor if you have some on hand.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken with spices and garlic, then store covered in the refrigerator a few hours ahead. While doing so, keep the cheese separate and sprinkle it on top just before baking to maintain the best texture.
What’s the best way to grate parmesan cheese?
For the best results, use a microplane grater or a fine metal grater to get fluffy, light parmesan. This ensures it melts evenly and covers every bite. Pre-grated options don’t melt as nicely due to anti-caking agents, so always opt for fresh if possible.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear without any pink when you cut into the chicken.
Can I add other herbs to this recipe?
Sure thing! Feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to customize the flavors to your liking. Fresh herbs provide a wonderful aroma and additional layers of flavor that can complement the parmesan beautifully.
What kinds of cheese work well with this dish?
Besides parmesan, you might try mozzarella for extra meltiness, or add a bit of sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor. The key is to use cheeses that melt nicely but also bring a unique taste to the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
Baked Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- 2 large skinless boneless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
Instructions
- Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine the salt, black pepper, and paprika in a bowl to create a flavorful spice mix.
- Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese.
- Grab a large baking dish and spray it lightly with avocado oil.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with your spice mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated.
- Spread the minced garlic evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle the parmesan on top.
- Optional: add some fresh chopped parsley and spray avocado oil over the chicken.
- Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for around 15 minutes.
- Once it's done, take it out, and it’s ready to serve!
- Pair it with a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables for the perfect meal.