Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a rich blend of Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs. Baked to perfection, the chicken remains juicy while developing a golden, slightly crispy topping. This comforting, one-pan recipe is simple to prepare and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad. Ideal for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining, this dish brings a burst of savory, garlic-infused goodness to your table.
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup plain Greek yogurt or labneh (for a Mediterranean twist)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley, lemon wedges
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
Spread a thin layer of the garlic Parmesan mixture on the bottom of the dish. Place the chicken breasts on top.
Spread the remaining mixture evenly over the chicken, coating each piece thoroughly.
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the top is golden brown.
Optional Broiling:
For a crispier top, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side of roasted vegetables, couscous, or a simple Mediterranean salad.
Notes:
Substitute Options: Greek yogurt can be replaced with labneh or a mix of ricotta and lemon juice for added creaminess.
Add Vegetables: You can layer zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or artichoke hearts in the dish for a one-pan meal.
Cheese Variations: Try pecorino Romano or a blend of cheeses for a sharper flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the chicken with the yogurt mixture and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake just before serving.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the baking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: How do I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a plant-based yogurt alternative and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) dish for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: Can I make this spicier?
A: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the yogurt mixture for a kick.
Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake!