Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken

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There’s something universally comforting about a hot, bubbling dish of baked cheesy garlic chicken. Rich in flavor, quick to make, and endlessly satisfying, this recipe is a true weeknight hero. It combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy garlic-infused sauce and a generous blanket of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Whether you’re serving a busy family dinner or simply craving a warm plate of comfort food, this dish delivers on both simplicity and flavor. The baking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, producing a golden, cheesy topping that crisps just right while the chicken stays juicy and flavorful underneath.

As part of many creamy chicken dinner recipes, this version stands out for its minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s no surprise this kind of dish has been trending in online searches and cooking communities like Pinterest’s collection of cheesy garlic chicken inspiration, where home cooks look for quick, satisfying meals.

If you’re new to baking chicken recipes or want to upgrade your current repertoire, understanding the fundamentals of this dish is key. From the mozzarella cheese to the golden finish you achieve in the oven, each element plays a role. Learn more about the basics of baking in an oven from this Wikipedia guide, especially if you’re adjusting times or temperature for your own appliance.

💛 Why you’ll love this recipe ✨

There are endless reasons to fall in love with this baked cheesy garlic chicken dish, especially for those who appreciate bold flavors without a lengthy cooking process. It’s ideal for families, meal prep, and anyone who loves cheese-heavy chicken meals.

Here’s why this recipe stands out:

  • Quick and Easy: From fridge to table in under 40 minutes.

  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup with only one baking dish needed.

  • Rich Flavor: Thanks to garlic, Parmesan, and mozzarella.

  • Customizable: Add vegetables, change the cheese, or adjust the seasoning.

  • Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

This recipe also fits within the broader category of baked chicken recipe ideas you can find on Pinterest, where similar dishes are adored for their versatility and flavor-packed results. Whether you’re looking to wow guests or just want a comforting dinner, this meal is a guaranteed hit.

🧂 Ingredients breakdown 📝

Let’s break down the ingredients you’ll need to bring this dish to life. Each component contributes texture, flavor, or function to make this baked cheesy garlic chicken as rich and creamy as possible.

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of the dish. Choose fresh, evenly sized pieces for even cooking. Learn more about chicken as food from this Wikipedia article.

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the chicken and prevents sticking.

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Essential for bold garlic flavor. Garlic not only enhances taste but offers health benefits — read more on garlic.

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Balances the garlic with subtle sweetness.

  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a mild herby note. For more on this ingredient, check out parsley herb.

  • Salt and pepper to taste: Basic seasoning that makes all other flavors shine.

  • 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base for the sauce. You can substitute with lighter cream or milk if needed.

  • 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and flavor depth.

  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce.

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and gives the dish that gooey, cheesy top. Mozzarella cheese is known for its mild flavor and perfect melt.

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth. Learn about its history in this Parmesan cheese Wikipedia page.

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Finishes the dish with a burst of color and freshness.

These ingredients form a luscious, indulgent dish that checks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and aroma. All are easily found in most pantries or local grocery stores, and they come together seamlessly in this recipe.

🥄 Equipment you’ll need 🍽️

Before you begin, gather the tools necessary to prepare this dish efficiently. The right equipment ensures your baked cheesy garlic chicken comes out perfectly cooked and full of flavor.

  • 9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size for even cooking.

  • Medium saucepan – To prepare the cream sauce.

  • Whisk – For smoothing out the sauce without lumps.

  • Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters!

  • Spatula or tongs – For assembling and handling the chicken.

  • Oven thermometer (optional) – Ensures your oven is at the correct temperature.

Having these essentials ready will streamline the cooking process and prevent unnecessary delays.

🔪 Step-by-step cooking instructions 🍽️

Preheat Oven & Prepare Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.

Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Then season both sides with:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp dried parsley

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Lay the seasoned chicken in the baking dish, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.

Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together:

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • 1 tbsp flour

Stir constantly for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. You’re looking for a smooth, pourable consistency that will cling to the chicken.

Assemble and Add Cheese

Pour the cream sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Then sprinkle generously with:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan

The cheeses will melt and bubble, forming that signature golden crust.

Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). The top should be bubbly and lightly browned.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve warm with a side of your choice.

🥘 Recipe variations and add-ons 🧩

One of the best parts about this dish is its adaptability. Here are some tasty variations and upgrades:

  • Keto-Friendly: Skip the flour and use xanthan gum or reduce the sauce slightly for a low-carb version.

  • Low-Fat Option: Use low-fat milk instead of cream and part-skim mozzarella.

  • Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the seasoning mix.

  • Vegetable Add-ins:

    • Baby spinach

    • Sliced mushrooms

    • Steamed broccoli

  • Cheese Substitutes:

    • Cheddar for a sharper flavor

    • Monterey Jack for a smooth melt

    • Provolone for a richer taste

Experimenting with these options allows you to tailor the recipe to your personal taste and dietary needs.

💡 Expert tips for perfect baked cheesy garlic chicken ✅

To ensure your dish turns out restaurant-quality every time, follow these expert tips:

  • Avoid overbaking: Overcooked chicken becomes dry. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

  • Sauce consistency: Whisk the sauce continuously while it heats. If it gets too thick, add a splash of broth.

  • Golden top: For a crispier cheese top, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it!

  • Add depth: Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side in a skillet before baking for added flavor.

  • Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest 5 minutes before serving. This lets the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

These small adjustments can take your dish from good to unforgettable.

🥗 Serving suggestions and pairing ideas 🥖

While baked cheesy garlic chicken is hearty enough on its own, pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience.

Great side dishes:

  • Garlic bread – Ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce.

  • Steamed broccoli or green beans – Adds freshness and crunch.

  • Mashed potatoes or rice – Perfect for a filling meal.

  • Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice – For a low-carb option.

Beverage pairings:

  • Fresh lemonade

  • Sparkling water with lemon

  • Unsweetened iced tea

The rich, savory nature of the dish benefits from lighter sides and clean, refreshing drinks.

🧊 Storage and reheating instructions ♻️

Leftovers of baked cheesy garlic chicken store and reheat wonderfully.

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

  • Reheating tips:

    • Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes covered with foil.

    • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in 1-minute intervals.

    • Skillet: Add a splash of broth or water to loosen sauce.

Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the chicken or separating the sauce.

🍽️ Nutritional information per serving ⚖️

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutrition in one serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: ~460

  • Protein: 38g

  • Fat: 30g

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Fiber: 0g

  • Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients used.

To make the dish lighter, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using lower-fat dairy alternatives.

❓ FAQs – People also ask 🙋

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. They’re juicier and more forgiving if overcooked.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?
For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before baking. For a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth.

What cheese melts best for this recipe?
Mozzarella is ideal for meltiness, while Parmesan adds sharp flavor. You can also use provolone or Monterey Jack.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

How do I tell if the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Try half-and-half, evaporated milk, or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.

Print

Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken

This Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken is the ultimate comfort food! Juicy chicken breasts are baked in a creamy garlic-infused sauce and smothered with melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

  • Author: Clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried parsley

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the creamy garlic sauce:

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium recommended)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

Cheese topping:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish:

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Season the chicken

  • Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels.

  • Rub each side evenly with:

    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

    • 1 teaspoon onion powder

    • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

    • Salt and pepper, to taste

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the sauce

  • In a medium saucepan, whisk together:

    • 1 cup heavy cream

    • 1 cup chicken broth

    • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

  • Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the dish

  • Pour the creamy garlic sauce evenly over the chicken breasts.

  • Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake

  • Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven.

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.

  • Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Don’t overbake: Use a meat thermometer for best results.

  • Lighter version: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce.

  • Add-ins: Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli can be added before baking.

  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

  • Cheese options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

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