- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake — The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner!
Tender, juicy chicken pieces are smothered in a rich and creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, then topped with golden, bubbly mozzarella and baked until perfectly delicious. This easy chicken bake is packed with flavor, incredibly comforting, and perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup chicken broth
– ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden on the outside. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage.
2. Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well, then gradually add the Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
3. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Return the chicken to the sauce and stir to coat every piece. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.
For an extra golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot. This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is delicious with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for soaking up every drop of that irresistible sauce!
Helpful Tips
– Use chicken thighs for extra juicy and tender results.
– Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
– For even more flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the creamy sauce.
One bite and you’ll understand why this creamy, cheesy garlic Parmesan chicken bake is always a family favorite!
