Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Recipe

If you are searching for a dish that combines rich flavors with comforting creaminess, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is an absolute winner. It’s a delightful combination of tender, thinly sliced chicken breasts smothered in a luscious garlic-infused parmesan sauce that bakes to perfection. With every bite, you get a wonderful balance of savory, cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe feels like a warm hug in food form and is guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes, the best dishes come together with a handful of straightforward ingredients that bring out incredible flavor and texture. Each component in this recipe plays a vital role, from the creamy mayonnaise adding moisture, to the parmesan cheese delivering that irresistible savory bite. Let’s look at what you need to gather before you start.

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced): Using thin slices helps the chicken cook quickly and soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise: This is the secret to that rich, silky texture that makes the sauce so luscious.
• 1 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese (divided): Parmesan brings a sharp, nutty flavor and a wonderful golden crust when baked.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant, bold punch that enhances every bite.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt (or seasoned salt): Adds a perfectly balanced seasoning without overpowering the natural flavors.
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: A little heat and freshness to balance the creaminess.
• Chopped parsley (optional garnish): A fresh, green pop of color and mild herbaceous flavor to finish the dish beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9×13 casserole dish. Arrange the thinly sliced chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of the dish, setting the stage for the creamy topping. Preparing the chicken in thin slices ensures it cooks evenly and remains tender under the rich cheese coating.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, half a cup of shredded parmesan cheese, minced garlic, garlic salt, and freshly cracked pepper. This mixture is the heart of the dish, combining creamy richness with the unmistakable flavor of garlic and sharp parmesan. Whisk until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Layer the Sauce and Cheese

Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure every slice is generously coated. Then sprinkle the remaining one cup of parmesan cheese over the top. This extra cheese forms a delightful crust as it bakes, adding texture and an inviting golden color to your dish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place your casserole dish in the oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The oven transforms the mayo and cheese mixture into a bubbly, golden layer that seals in moisture and flavor. Once baked, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is ready to serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you like a touch of vibrancy on your plate.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Garnishes

Finishing this dish with fresh chopped parsley is a simple but stunning touch. It adds a bright pop of green color that contrasts beautifully with the golden, cheesy top, while delivering a subtle herbaceous note that complements the garlic and parmesan flavors. If you want to get creative, a few freshly cracked pepper flakes or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the presentation even further.

Side Dishes

The creamy richness of this chicken pairs wonderfully with light and fresh side dishes. Consider serving it alongside steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. For those craving comfort, buttery mashed potatoes or garlic herb rice are perfect companions that soak up every bit of that savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation up a notch by plating the chicken over a bed of sautéed spinach or spiralized zucchini noodles, which add texture and color contrast. You might also try serving it family-style straight from the casserole dish at the table for a cozy, homey feel that invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce and tender chicken hold up well for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy a delicious meal without extra effort on busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, which is great for meal planning. After baking and cooling, portion the chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat the leftover Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken gently in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out the chicken. Microwaving is a quick alternative but warm in short bursts to keep the cheese from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a few minutes longer to reach the safe internal temperature.

Is mayonnaise necessary in this recipe?

Mayonnaise is the key to the creamy texture here, so it’s highly recommended. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be swapped in, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

Can I prepare this dish without an oven?

The baking step is essential to get that golden, bubbly topping. However, you could finish cooking the chicken stovetop then broil briefly to melt and brown the cheese, but be careful to watch it closely.

What can I do if I don’t have parmesan cheese?

Aged Pecorino Romano is a good substitute offering a similar salty, nutty flavor. Avoid pre-grated parmesan blends, as the texture and melting properties might be off.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes! It reheats well and maintains great flavor after a day or two, making it perfect for preparing meals in advance for busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Fresh, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress family and friends. So if you want a tried-and-true dish that combines garlic, parmesan, and rich creaminess in a cozy package, give this a try — your taste buds will thank you!

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