Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-487110H56M11S
Total time: PT-487110H56M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2–3 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally; Salt and cracked black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp chicken bouillon (optional); 1–2 tbsp lemon juice; 4 tbsp melted unsalted butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp minced garlic (or garlic powder); 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish; ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional); 3 tsp paprika, divided

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

A comforting, no-fuss dinner where tender chicken meets a buttery, garlicky Parmesan crust—perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for company.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quickly this comes together—just whisk a flavorful Parmesan-garlic sauce and bake. The sauce creates a rich, crisp topping that keeps the chicken moist and delicious. Plus, I can serve it with rice, roasted veggies, or pasta for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2–3 chicken breasts, sliced in half horizontally
Salt and cracked black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chicken bouillon (optional)
1–2 tbsp lemon juice
4 tbsp melted unsalted butter
2 tbsp olive oil
¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp minced garlic (or garlic powder)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
3 tsp paprika, divided

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and position rack in center.
Season chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, bouillon, lemon juice, and 1 tsp paprika. Arrange in a baking dish.
In a bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, red pepper flakes, and remaining paprika. Pour over chicken, reserving a little for serving if desired.
Bake 15–20 minutes until chicken reaches 165 °F internally. Let rest slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve with extra sauce.

Servings and timing

This serves 2–3 people. Prep takes about 5 minutes, bake time is around 15–20 minutes, so total cooking time is roughly 20–25 minutes from fridge to table.

Variations

Whole breasts or cubes: Skip slicing for plump servings or cube for quicker cooking.
Spicy kick: Stir in sriracha or extra chili flakes to the sauce.
Low-carb twist: Serve over cauliflower rice or roasted veggies.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a few drops of water to revive the sauce and keep chicken juicy.

FAQs

What if I don’t have fresh Parmesan?

I use freshly grated Parmesan for creaminess. Pre-grated works, but the texture and flavor aren’t the same—I’d grate from a block if I can.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely—I’d adjust bake time slightly and check internal temperature to reach 165 °F.

Do I need the chicken bouillon?

I sometimes skip it. The chicken is still flavorful thanks to garlic, lemon, and Parmesan.

How do I know when chicken is done?

I rely on an instant-read thermometer—165 °F in the thickest part means it’s safe and juicy.

Can I prep ahead?

Totally. I mix the sauce ahead and keep it chilled. When ready, I slice the chicken, season it, pour the sauce, and bake.

Conclusion

I love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake for its simplicity, speed, and crave-worthy flavor. With a minimal ingredient list and maximum taste, it’s become a go-to. Between that golden Parmesan crust and juicy chicken, this dish never disappoints.