Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that feels like a big hug, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic. This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s one of those recipes that impresses without requiring hours of preparation. The creamy sauce, infused with garlic and rich Parmesan, envelops tender chicken breasts, making every bite utterly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the table.

I love how easy it is to whip up this comforting meal. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without the fuss. Plus, the creamy sauce is so good, you’ll find yourself wanting to lick the plate clean!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a mouthwatering dinner ready in under an hour.
• Family Favorite: The creamy sauce is kid-approved and perfect for everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
• Flexible Ingredients: Easily adjust spices or add your favorite veggies to customize the dish.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of Parmesan and garlic creates an irresistible flavor that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will make your cooking experience enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic:

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey breasts or even boneless thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Change up the cheese: Try using mozzarella or feta instead of Parmesan for a different twist!
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to give your dish a little kick.

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures your chicken cooks evenly and develops that beautiful golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This step adds layers of flavor right from the start!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in juices and creates that lovely color we all adore.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), whisk together chicken broth and softened cream cheese until smooth. This mixture will be rich and creamy—just wait until you taste it!

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese into your sauce mix while adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly—this makes every bite luscious.

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Place the seared chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. Pour that delicious cream cheese sauce evenly over them; make sure everything is generously coated!

Step 7: Bake

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures safety while keeping it juicy!

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once done baking, don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving! It adds a pop of color and freshness that complements this dish beautifully.

Enjoy making this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic—it’s bound to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips to make your dish even better!

• Choose the right chicken: Opting for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts ensures tenderness and flavor, giving your dish that mouthwatering quality.

• Sear for flavor: Searing the chicken before baking not only locks in juices but also creates a delicious caramelized crust that adds depth to your overall dish.

• Whisk thoroughly: When combining the cream cheese and chicken broth, whisk until completely smooth. This prevents lumps in the sauce and ensures an even distribution of creaminess throughout your dish.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different! Taste your sauce before pouring it over the chicken and adjust the salt and pepper as needed to create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices and keeps the meat tender and juicy.

How to Serve Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Presentation can elevate any meal, transforming it from simple to stunning. Here are some ideas for serving this creamy baked chicken.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side provides a zesty contrast that complements the richness of the creamy sauce.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of baked chicken.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds both color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the main dish while providing a satisfying crunch.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette offers freshness and texture that complements the creamy chicken wonderfully.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance your dining experience but also impress your family or guests with a beautiful presentation! Enjoy your meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for storage.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for about 20–25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave on medium power, checking every minute until warm.

FAQs

You might have some questions about this delicious recipe, so let’s address a few common ones!

Can I use other types of cheese instead of Parmesan in Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for alternatives, you can try using cheddar, mozzarella, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Each will lend a different flavor profile while still resulting in a creamy sauce.

How do I know when my Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is by checking its internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). You can use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast for accuracy.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add veggies like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers either during the baking process or sauté them along with the chicken. They’ll enhance both flavor and nutrition!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in preparing this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic as I do! It’s not just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort and happiness to any dinner table. Enjoy making it for your family or friends, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!

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