Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Bake

I make this because I like food that looks fancy enough to impress my in-laws but is lazy enough for me to actually make on a Tuesday. Creamy, garlicky, and suspiciously comforting, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Bake feels like a restaurant dish that took zero effort and one pan—well, one pan and a tiny lie. Try it because it hits that cozy, ambitious-but-not-too-ambitious sweet spot. Also: cheese. Always try it for the cheese.

My husband once tried to “help” by preheating the oven and then deciding it should be colder—so he walked in, opened the door, and announced the temperature was wrong while holding a frozen pie like an accusation. The kids cheered like it was halftime. I stared at the chicken, the oven, and my life choices, sighed, and shoved the pan back in. It still turned out delicious. Moral: chaos + butter + garlic = forgiveness.

Time-Saving Hacks

– Use pre-grated Parmesan. Yes, I know, freshly grated is superior in an alternate universe. In this one, I’m tired.
– Buy thin-cut chicken or pound breasts flat while Netflix judges your life choices. Faster cooking = fewer “is it done?!” moments.
– One-pan finish: Sear the chicken in a big ovenproof skillet, dump in sauce, and slide the whole thing into the oven. Fewer dishes, more smugness.
– Frozen garlic? Fine. Minced in a jar? Also fine. The sauce will forgive you for small sins.
– If you’re really desperate, swap half-and-half for heavy cream + milk. It’s less sinful and more believable.

Serving Ideas

– Serve over buttery mashed potatoes if you want to be hugged by your dinner. Warning: slippery forks.
– Spoon over pasta for carb-and-sauce synergy, and then deny any responsibility for the nap you take afterward.
– Roast some broccoli or green beans for color and moral high ground.
– Serve with a simple salad if you need people to think you’re balancing life.
– Pair with a chilled glass of white wine (or boxed, I don’t judge) — serve with wine if the kids drove you nuts today.

What to Serve It With

– Garlic bread to mop the sauce (do it).
– Steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts if you want adult points.
– Fluffy rice for maximum comfort-carb potential.
– A crisp Caesar or simple mixed greens because salads make leftovers feel virtuous.

✔Tips & Mistakes

– Don’t overcook the chicken. Sear it until golden and finish in the oven; dryness is unforgivable.
– If your sauce splits, whisk in a splash of hot pasta water or a tiny knob of butter to rescue it. Emergency measures: acceptable.
– Use a thermometer if you freak out about texture. 165°F is the safe finish line.
– Too salty? Add a squeeze of lemon or a little milk to mellow it out.
– Don’t cram the pan. Overcrowding means steaming, not browning. Your chicken deserves a tan.

✔Storage Tips

Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh.
– Keep in an airtight container up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on low heat or in the oven to avoid rubber chicken.
– Freeze in individual portions if you plan to be irresponsible and then rely on your future self to be grateful.

✔Variations and Substitutions

Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts.
– Add mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami.
– Swap chicken for pork chops or tofu if you’re feeling experimental or just avoiding grocery stores.
– Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely for a saucier bake.

Frequently Asked Questions

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Dinner Bake

This delicious creamy garlic parmesan chicken bake is the perfect comforting meal for any night.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
• ▢ 2 cups heavy cream
• ▢ 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
• ▢ 1 tbsp garlic minced
• ▢ 1 tsp italian seasoning
• ▢ 0.5 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.25 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 1 cup uncooked pasta e.g., penne or rigatoni
• ▢ 1 cup fresh spinach coarsely chopped

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant.
• Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned.
• Pour in the heavy cream, then gradually stir in the Parmesan until melted and combined.
• Stir in the uncooked pasta and chopped spinach, mixing well.
• Transfer everything into a baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and the top is golden brown.
• Let it cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some sun-dried tomatoes or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.