Butter Herb Chicken and Garlic Bread Crouton Bake

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup soft breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. 3 In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, melted butter, parsley, thyme, and minced garlic until well combined.
4. 4 Toss baguette cubes in half of the breadcrumb mixture until coated.
5. 5 Place chicken breasts in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining breadcrumb mixture over the chicken.
6. 6 Arrange seasoned baguette cubes around the chicken.
7. 7 Pour chicken broth over everything.
8. 8 Bake for 35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and croutons are golden.
9. 9 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Variations

• Substitute chicken thighs for a richer, juicier option.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.

Substitutions

• Use dried herbs if fresh are unavailable, but reduce the amount by half.
• Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc.
• A side of roasted potatoes complements this dish perfectly.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the melted butter and herbs for 30 minutes before baking.
• Use fresh herbs if available for the best flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the croutons.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top adds a tangy kick.

FAQ