"The Chicken"
Juicy baked chicken breasts infused with garlic and Parmesan, finished with white wine for a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish, leaving the skin on.
- Mix olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper in a large measuring cup.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, overnight is best.
- When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Leave the chicken out at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Pour 1 cup of white wine over the chicken and sauce.
- Bake for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken breasts overnight in the olive oil and cheese mixture. If you're out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a different twist. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the olive oil to 1/2 cup and add lemon juice for brightness. Additionally, using skinless chicken breasts will yield a healthier option while still maintaining great flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a side of pasta, making it a great option for dinner parties. For a twist, try serving it with a light lemon sauce, reminiscent of Chicken Tetrazzini, for added zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook as it can dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "The Chicken" contains roughly 167 calories, with 10g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but reduce the baking time to about 25-35 minutes to avoid drying them out. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What can I serve this chicken with?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, consider a quinoa salad or grilled asparagus to complement the flavors.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking. This makes meal prep easy and convenient for busy nights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).