15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a game changer for busy weeknights. With its juicy chicken breasts, rich flavors of garlic and parmesan, and a quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for family dinners or last-minute guests. It’s not only easy to prepare but also offers a delicious meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of garlic and parmesan creates an irresistible taste that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with salads, veggies, or grains for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with fresh chicken and wholesome seasonings, it’s a nutritious choice for your family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making this delightful dish, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden crust on the chicken.
• Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl makes it easy to combine your spices and prepare your chicken without mess.

Ingredients

To create your delicious 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts (skinless boneless)
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (fresh, grated)
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt (sea salt)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 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:
– Mix the salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl to create a spice blend.
– Shred the parmesan cheese.
– Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Take out a large baking dish or pan:
– Spray it with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
– Generously sprinkle the seasoning on both sides of your chicken breasts.
– Place the seasoned chicken on the baking pan.

Step 3: Add Flavorings

Now it’s time to enhance those flavors:
– Sprinkle minced garlic over each piece of chicken.
– Top with grated parmesan cheese.
– Finish by adding some fresh chopped parsley.
– Lightly spray avocado oil on top of the chicken for added moisture during baking.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 15 minutes:
– Once cooked, carefully remove from the oven.
– Serve with your favorite sides and garnish with an extra sprinkle of parsley for presentation.

Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This delicious 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only quick to prepare but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions that pair wonderfully with this flavorful dish.

With Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serve the baked chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the savory garlic and parmesan flavors.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair it with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a healthy and colorful plate.

Wrapped in Lettuce

• For a low-carb option, wrap slices of chicken in crisp lettuce leaves; add fresh herbs for extra flavor.

On a Sandwich

• Slice the chicken and layer it on whole-grain bread with avocado and fresh spinach for a hearty sandwich.

How to Perfect 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

To ensure your baked garlic parmesan chicken turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parmesan cheese provide better flavor than pre-packaged versions.
• Pound the Chicken: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Overcooking can dry out the chicken; 15 minutes at 400 degrees is usually just right.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to customize the spice blend by adding herbs like thyme or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture inside the meat.

Best Side Dishes for 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Complement your 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken with these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors while keeping your meal balanced.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds elegance and nutrition to your plate.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative to traditional rice, cauliflower rice is light and absorbs flavors well.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing offers a great contrast in texture.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy baked sweet potato fries bring sweetness that balances the savory chicken beautifully.
6. Couscous Salad: A refreshing couscous salad with diced vegetables and herbs adds color and freshness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that could affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Always set a timer for 15 minutes and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Neglecting to season both sides of the chicken can result in bland flavors. Make sure to generously apply your spice blend on both sides before baking.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect melting. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure your oven reaches 400 degrees before placing the chicken inside.
• Ignoring Rest Time: Cutting into the chicken right after baking can cause juices to run out, leading to a dry dish. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

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

• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! You can experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

What should I serve with this chicken?

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

How can I customize the seasoning?

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary or swap paprika for chili powder for extra kick!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to baking and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

The 15-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or sides. Give it a try today!