Name: 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large skinless boneless chicken breasts; 1/2 cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 4 minced garlic cloves

This 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delightful dish that combines flavor and convenience. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe stands out with its juicy chicken, aromatic garlic, and rich Parmesan cheese. In just 15 minutes, you can serve a dish that impresses everyone at your table. Whether paired with a fresh salad or your favorite sides, this chicken is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to bake, making it perfect for busy schedules.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that elevates the chicken.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it with various sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Healthy Option: With lean chicken breast and minimal oil, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting this simple recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish or pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Knife and cutting board
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish or pan: Ensures even cooking and easy serving of your chicken.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining spices and preparing the garlic mixture without mess.
Grater: Essential for shredding fresh Parmesan cheese, enhancing the flavor of the dish.

Ingredients

This baked garlic parmesan chicken is juicy, flavorful, easy to make, and ready to serve in only 15 minutes.

For the Chicken

2 large chicken breasts (skinless boneless)

For the Seasoning

1/2 cup parmesan cheese (fresh, grated)
2 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt (sea salt)
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Garlic Mixture

4 whole garlic cloves (minced)

How to Make 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First, pre-heat your oven to 400 degrees. While your oven is preheating:
1. Mix your salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl to create a spice blend.
2. Shred your parmesan cheese.
3. Mince your garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take out a large baking dish or pan:
1. Spray it generously with avocado oil.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning blend on both sides of each chicken breast.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the baking pan.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Cheese

Now it’s time to add flavor:
1. Sprinkle minced garlic evenly over each piece of chicken.
2. Generously top with shredded parmesan cheese.
3. Finish with a light sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and flavor.
4. Lightly spray avocado oil on top of the chicken.

Step 4: Bake Your Chicken

Bake in the preheated oven at 400 degrees for 15 minutes:
1. Keep an eye on your chicken to ensure it cooks perfectly.
2. Once done, carefully remove it from the oven.
3. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and garnish with more parsley if desired.

Enjoy your delicious 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, a quick meal that satisfies!

How to Serve 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This flavorful baked garlic parmesan chicken is perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Serve with Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the chicken. Consider a simple mix of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice.

Complement with Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots add color and nutrition to your plate. Toss them in olive oil and herbs before roasting for extra flavor.

Pair with Quinoa or Rice

Fluffy quinoa or seasoned rice can help soak up the delicious juices from the chicken. You can prepare them with vegetable broth for an added depth of flavor.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

For garlic lovers, serving your chicken alongside warm garlic bread makes for a delightful combination. Use fresh herbs and butter to elevate the taste.

Add Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that complements the richness of the chicken. You can make them smooth or leave some chunks for added texture.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Perfecting this dish is easy with a few tips that enhance its flavor and texture.

Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and high-quality parmesan cheese significantly elevate the dish’s taste compared to packaged alternatives.
Don’t Overcook – Keep an eye on cooking time; overcooked chicken can become dry. The goal is juicy meat that retains its moisture.
Let It Rest – Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain juices, making it even more tender.
Experiment with Seasonings – Feel free to try different spices like Italian herbs or cayenne pepper to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.
Garnish Generously – A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness and flavor just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Pairing your baked garlic parmesan chicken with complementary sides makes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds a nutritious crunch that balances out the richness of the chicken.
Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice is light and fluffy, complementing the flavors without overwhelming them.
Couscous Salad – Lightly flavored couscous mixed with herbs and vegetables creates a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
Grilled Asparagus – Tender asparagus spears grilled with olive oil bring out their natural sweetness while adding elegance to your plate.
Sweet Potato Wedges – Oven-roasted sweet potato wedges provide a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with garlic flavors.
Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini noodles can be lightly sautéed, offering a healthy, low-carb option alongside your main dish.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing the richness of the baked garlic parmesan chicken.
Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice make an eye-catching side that’s also fun to eat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the seasoning – Not properly seasoning your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always ensure you season both sides of the chicken generously.
Overcooking the chicken – Leaving your chicken in the oven for too long can dry it out. Stick to the 15-minute bake time for juicy results.
Using pre-grated cheese – Pre-grated parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Opt for fresh, grated parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
Neglecting to preheat the oven – Starting with a cold oven can alter cooking times and texture. Always preheat your oven to 400 degrees before baking.
Forgetting the garnish – Skipping fresh parsley can take away from visual appeal and flavor. A light sprinkle of parsley enhances both taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake until heated through, about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! While parmesan is traditional, you can experiment with mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely.

What sides pair well with baked garlic parmesan chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How can I customize the spice blend?

Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor. You can also adjust paprika levels based on your spice preference.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. It’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or even served in wraps or salads. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices! Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!