This Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! Coated in garlic and Parmesan, it turns ordinary chicken into a tasty dinner delight.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are my go-to for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work too, but you might need to adjust the cooking time.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor. Pre-grated works fine in a pinch, but it often contains additives. For a dairy-free option, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a bold flavor. You can use garlic powder if you’re in a hurry, but start with a smaller amount since it’s more concentrated. I prefer fresh for that strong aroma!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you’re aiming to cut down on calories, olive oil or a vegan butter substitute can work well here without losing too much flavor.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Adding both zest and juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar can add acidity, but adjust to taste as it’s more potent.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skin Gets Crispy?
A crispy skin on chicken thighs is all about preparation and cooking technique. Here’s how to achieve that golden crispy goodness:
- Pat the chicken thighs dry before applying the garlic mixture. Moisture prevents crisping.
- Make sure your oven is preheated properly. A hot oven helps the skin crisp up quickly.
- Place the chicken skin side up on a baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate around the skin directly.
- Avoid covering the chicken while baking, as this traps steam and makes the skin soggy.
These steps are key to getting that perfect crunch while keeping the meat tender and juicy! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
For the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
Optional:
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Wedges of lemon for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and 35-40 minutes to bake. With a little bit of waiting time while it cooks, you’ll be enjoying your meal in about 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, take a baking sheet and either line it with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, melted butter, dried parsley, dried basil, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until you have a nice, smooth paste.
3. Get the Chicken Ready:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with some paper towels. This step is important as it helps the skin get crispy! Place the chicken thighs on your prepared baking sheet with the skin side facing up.
4. Coat the Chicken:
Now, take your garlic Parmesan mixture and generously spoon it over each chicken thigh. Make sure every piece is well-coated so it gets all that delicious flavor!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking sheet in your hot oven and bake the chicken for about 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should look golden and crispy—it’ll smell amazing!
6. Let it Rest:
Once your chicken is perfectly baked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making it extra juicy when you cut into it.
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a lovely finish, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you like. Serve your chicken with wedges of lemon on the side. Enjoy your tasty Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In, Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Just note that skinless thighs won’t get that crispy texture, but they will still absorb all the delicious flavors. Reduce the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they don’t dry out.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Parmesan Cheese?
If you’re out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a similar flavor. Alternatively, you can use other hard cheeses like asiago or cheddar, though the taste will vary slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to maintain that crispy texture, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers around the chicken on the baking sheet. Just toss them in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor, and they’ll cook beautifully alongside the chicken!
