Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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Looking for a delicious yet hassle-free recipe for a busy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this mouthwatering Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken. With tender chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of mayo, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time. Follow these simple steps to whip up a satisfying meal that will leave everyone craving for more.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup Mayonnaise
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breast cutlets
  • 4-5 teaspoons Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ teaspoon lemon pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Mix the Flavor: In a small bowl, combine the mayo, garlic powder, and shredded Parmesan cheese until well blended.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Lightly moisten the chicken breasts with water and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Evenly divide the mayonnaise mixture among the chicken breasts, spreading it over the top of each piece.
  4. Season and Bake: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and lemon pepper over the chicken breasts. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes.
  5. Add Crunch: After the initial baking time, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle Italian seasoned dry bread crumbs evenly over each piece.
  6. Return to Oven: Place the baking sheet back into the oven and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear. The tops should turn golden brown, indicating that they are perfectly baked.
  7. Optional Broil: For an extra crispy finish, you can place the chicken under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken hot and fresh from the oven, paired with your favorite steamed vegetables, such as broccoli. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: Adjust based on portion size and specific ingredients used.

 

Serving and Storage Tips

Once you’ve mastered the art of preparing this delectable Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, here are some handy serving and storage tips to ensure that every meal is a success:

Serving Suggestions:

  1. Pair with Veggies: Serve your Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken alongside a variety of steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, or a colorful medley of bell peppers make excellent accompaniments that complement the flavors of the dish.
  2. Go Carb-Crazy: For a heartier meal, consider serving the chicken with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty garlic bread. The creamy, garlicky sauce pairs wonderfully with carb-rich sides.
  3. Fresh Salad: Balance out the richness of the chicken by serving it with a crisp, refreshing salad. Toss together your favorite greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a light and healthy meal option.
  4. Dipping Sauces: Elevate the flavor experience by offering a selection of dipping sauces on the side. Marinara sauce, honey mustard, or a tangy barbecue sauce can add an extra layer of deliciousness to each bite.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigerate Promptly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate them promptly to keep them fresh. Properly stored, Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  2. Reheat with Care: To reheat the chicken, place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave for a quicker option, but be mindful not to overcook and dry out the chicken.
  3. Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is perfect for meal prepping ahead of time. Simply bake a batch of chicken, portion it out into individual containers, and store them in the refrigerator for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  4. Freeze for Later: If you want to extend the shelf life of your Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you can freeze it for future enjoyment. Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the chicken to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

 

Variations

While the classic Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is undeniably delicious, why not spice things up and add a creative twist to your culinary repertoire? Here are some exciting variations to take your chicken dish to the next level:

  1. Herb-infused Mayo: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the mayo mixture. Add fresh chopped herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme for an extra burst of flavor. Alternatively, mix in some dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a convenient option.
  2. Crunchy Coating: Instead of traditional bread crumbs, try using crushed crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes for a crispy, crunchy coating. You can also mix in grated Parmesan cheese with the bread crumbs for added cheesiness.
  3. Cheese Blend: Get creative with your cheese selection by mixing different types of cheeses into the mayo mixture. Try adding shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack cheese for a melty, gooey texture. You can even sprinkle some crumbled feta or blue cheese on top for a bold flavor kick.
  4. Spicy Kick: Turn up the heat by incorporating some spicy ingredients into the recipe. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mayo mixture for a fiery kick. You can also brush the chicken with a spicy buffalo sauce before baking for a zesty twist.
  5. Lemon Zest: Brighten up the flavors of your chicken dish by adding some freshly grated lemon zest to the mayo mixture. The citrusy aroma and tangy flavor will add a refreshing dimension to the dish, making it perfect for spring and summer meals.
  6. Pesto Perfection: Swap out the mayo mixture for pesto sauce for a flavorful alternative. Spread a generous layer of pesto over the chicken breasts before baking for a deliciously fragrant and herbaceous twist. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and pine nuts for an extra touch of indulgence.
  7. Stuffed Chicken: Get creative by stuffing the chicken breasts with savory fillings before baking. Try filling them with a mixture of spinach and ricotta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and goat cheese, or roasted red peppers and feta cheese for a gourmet twist.
  8. Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions, you can easily make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers as a coating. Ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free to accommodate your needs.

 

 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) :

  1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
    • Yes, you can! While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, you can easily substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful alternative.
  2. Is it necessary to use mayonnaise in this recipe?
    • Mayonnaise plays a crucial role in creating a creamy and flavorful coating for the chicken. However, if you prefer to avoid mayo, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a similar texture and taste.
  3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    • Absolutely! You can prepare the mayonnaise mixture and coat the chicken breasts in advance, then cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
  4. What can I serve with Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken?
    • This chicken dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad. Feel free to get creative and customize the sides to suit your preferences.
  5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
    • The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy, or simply cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check for doneness.

Indulge in the savory goodness of this Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, a simple yet satisfying dish that will elevate your weeknight dinners to a whole new level. Try it tonight and prepare to be amazed!