Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a tender, juicy meal with a rich garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels special without demanding hours in the kitchen. This recipe skips the breading, keeping it lighter while letting the delicious seasoning shine through beautifully.

I first whipped up this dish on a hectic weeknight and was amazed at how quickly it came together while tasting like a restaurant-quality meal. Now it’s a favorite I keep returning to whenever I want something simple but impressive.

Ingredients

• Grated or shredded Parmesan cheese: freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a fresh tangy flavor
• Unsalted butter: this gives you control over saltiness and creates a rich sauce base
• Fresh garlic: essential for deep aroma and flavor, garlic powder can be a last resort
• Chopped parsley: fresh herbs brighten the dish, dried works if fresh is not available
• Honey: adds subtle sweetness that balances garlic and cheese
• Dijon mustard: brings mild tang and complexity without overwhelming
• Italian seasoning: a blend of Mediterranean herbs that complement chicken beautifully
• Red pepper flakes: optional for a bit of heat, cayenne can be swapped in for more spice
• Chicken breasts: halved for even cooking or use tenders or thighs, cook to internal temp of 165°F
• Fresh squeezed lemon juice: tenderizes meat and adds fresh citrus brightness, avoid bottled lemon juice for best flavor or omit if needed
• Avocado oil: ideal for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, light olive oil is a fine alternative
• Garlic powder and onion powder: add layers of savory flavor that enhance fresh ingredients
• Paprika: smoked or sweet depending on your taste preference, adds color and subtle smoky notes
• Kosher salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together

Instructions

Preheat oven:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit

Make sauce:

Combine Parmesan cheese, butter, minced garlic, parsley, honey, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir thoroughly until well mixed and set aside

Line baking sheet:

Line a 9 by 13 inch baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Season chicken:

Place chicken on the baking sheet and coat each piece evenly with lemon juice, avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper ensuring both sides are seasoned properly

Spread sauce:

Transfer the prepared garlic Parmesan sauce onto the chicken using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, spreading it evenly over all pieces so each bite is flavorful

Bake:

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit

Broil optional:

Optionally broil the chicken on high for just a minute or two to achieve a golden brown top but watch carefully as it can burn quickly

Rest:

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute

My favorite ingredient is fresh garlic which makes all the difference in flavor and aroma. One evening when I made this for family dinner the rich garlicky sauce had everyone asking for seconds and even my picky eaters cleaned their plates without complaint. It became a quick staple in our weekly meal rotation.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to preserve texture and flavor. For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to maintain juiciness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Dijon mustard use any mild mustard you have on hand or simply leave it out if you prefer. Parmesan cheese can be swapped with Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella for different but equally delicious profiles. Instead of chicken breasts try chicken thighs or tenders for more juicy, flavorful meat and adjust cooking time accordingly. Avocado oil can be replaced with light olive oil if not available without affecting flavor much.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken goes well with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite pasta for a comforting meal. For a lighter balance serve alongside steamed broccoli, green beans, or a fresh garden salad. Bread options such as garlic bread, crusty rolls, or dinner rolls complement the garlicky sauce perfectly.

This baked garlic Parmesan chicken is quick and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete family meal.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken and sauce separately up to 24 hours before baking to save prep time.

→ Is it necessary to use chicken breasts?

Any chicken cut works well, including thighs or tenders, just ensure it reaches 165°F internally.

→ What cheese options work instead of Parmesan?

Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or mozzarella are great alternatives that melt well.

→ Can Dijon mustard be omitted?

Yes, omitting Dijon simply reduces a subtle tang but doesn’t affect the overall flavor much.

→ What sides complement this dish?

Pairs nicely with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad.