Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a decadent, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The combination of melted cheese and garlic creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds before they even taste it.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed something impressive yet simple. Now it's become our go to dinner whenever guests come over everyone thinks I spent hours in the kitchen when really the oven does all the work.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: thinly sliced for quicker cooking and even flavor distribution
• ¾ cup mayonnaise: creates the incredible creamy texture use full fat for best results
• 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese: divided look for freshly grated rather than pre packaged for superior melting
• 2 garlic cloves: minced fresh garlic provides much more flavor than powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic salt or seasoned salt: enhances all the flavors without needing multiple seasonings
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: the coarse texture adds visual appeal and flavor bursts
• Chopped parsley: optional garnish adds a fresh color contrast and slight herbaceous note

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F ensuring it reaches full temperature before adding your dish. Thoroughly grease a 9x13 casserole dish to prevent sticking which can ruin the presentation. Arrange the thinly sliced chicken breasts in a single even layer allowing space between pieces for even cooking.

Create the Creamy Mixture:

In a small bowl whisk together the mayonnaise 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese minced garlic garlic salt and freshly cracked pepper until completely combined. The mixture should have a smooth spreadable consistency similar to a thick frosting. Take time to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout.

Assemble the Dish:

Carefully spread the creamy mixture over each chicken breast making sure to cover them completely from edge to edge. This creates a protective layer that keeps the chicken moist while cooking. Generously sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Parmesan cheese over the entire dish creating a blanket of cheese that will form a golden crust.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the preheated oven on the middle rack for even heat distribution. Bake for approximately 40 minutes or until the chicken reaches the food safe internal temperature of 165°F. The top should be bubbling with a gorgeous golden brown color. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute within the chicken.

The Parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I once tried making this with a different hard cheese and while still good it lacked that distinctive nutty flavor that only aged Parmesan can deliver. My husband now specifically requests this dish whenever we need something special but I dont have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Make Ahead Options

This dish shines with its make ahead potential. You can assemble everything up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook simply add about 5 minutes to the baking time since youll be starting with cold chicken. The flavors actually develop nicely during the wait making this perfect for planning ahead for dinner parties.

Serving Suggestions

While perfect on its own this chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides that wont compete with its rich flavor. Consider serving alongside roasted asparagus broccoli or a fresh green salad with vinaigrette. For those not following low carb diets a side of garlic butter pasta makes an excellent companion soaking up the extra sauce wonderfully.

Leftover Transformation

Transform any leftovers into an entirely new meal. Chop the chicken into bite sized pieces and toss with freshly cooked pasta for a quick Alfredo style dish. Alternatively slice it thinly and layer on top of a salad with some extra Parmesan for a protein packed lunch. The chicken stays moist even when reheated making it ideal for meal prep.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this dish?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this dish and often yield more tender results. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs can take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

To keep it low-carb, serve with roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or a fresh side salad. For those not counting carbs, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and topping up to 24 hours ahead, store covered in the refrigerator, and bake when ready. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

→ Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in this recipe?

Greek yogurt or sour cream can be substituted for mayonnaise, though the flavor profile will change slightly. For a richer alternative, try a combination of cream cheese and heavy cream.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of a piece - the meat should be white throughout with no pink remaining.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! Spinach, mushrooms, or artichoke hearts make excellent additions. Add them either underneath the chicken or mixed into the sauce before baking for a complete one-pan meal.