Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts with Garlic Herb Sauce (Print Version)
Creamy baked chicken breasts, tender and juicy, smothered in a rich garlic herb sauce. An easy weeknight meal that's packed with flavor.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs total)
→ Velvety Cream Sauce
02 -
4 oz cream cheese, softened (1/2 block)
03 -
1/2 cup chicken broth
04 -
1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
05 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Aromatic Flavor Weavers
06 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
07 -
1 tsp onion powder
08 -
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
09 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
10 -
1 tsp kosher salt
11 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
→ Golden Crown & Fresh Finish
12 -
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
13 -
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This prepares your kitchen for the delicious Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe, ensuring easy cleanup and even cooking.
02 -
Pat dry the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season generously on both sides with 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
03 -
In a medium bowl, whisk together 4 oz softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cloves minced garlic until completely smooth. This forms the velvety base for your Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe.
04 -
Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated and submerged in the delicious mixture.
05 -
Bake for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is mostly cooked through (internal temperature reaches 160°F/71°C). This initial bake sets the stage for perfectly tender and juicy Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe.
06 -
Remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
07 -
Let the Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts Recipe rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful dish. Garnish generously with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, quickly sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side in a hot pan before adding them to the baking dish. This creates a nice golden crust.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
03 -
Feel free to substitute dried chives or dill for the fresh parsley garnish. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
04 -
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted asparagus, steamed green beans, or a simple side salad. Serve with rice or pasta to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
9x13 inch baking dish
02 -
large mixing bowl
03 -
whisk
04 -
measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 400 kcal
Total Fat: 23 g
Total Carbohydrate: 4 g
Protein: 43 g