Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish to brighten your weeknight dinners, look no further than this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic. This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, and it never fails to impress! The combination of tender chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and then enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy Tuesday or a family gathering, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ease of preparation. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this delightful meal. Plus, the creamy Parmesan-garlic sauce makes every bite feel indulgent without the fuss. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Family-approved: This creamy chicken dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it great for family dinners.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then bake when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously versatile: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or fresh veggies, giving you plenty of options for sides.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! They come together beautifully to create that luscious creaminess we all crave.

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Variations

This recipe is flexible and open to your creativity! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or a plant-based chicken alternative for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your creamy sauce.
• Change the cheese: Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or feta for a unique flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color on top.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This seasoning mix will infuse flavor into every bite!

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, heat up some olive oil. Once hot, add your seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2–3 minutes until they are golden brown. This step locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it yet!), whisk together your softened cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. This creates that creamy base we love so much! Stir in grated Parmesan cheese while adjusting salt and pepper as needed. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Bake It All Together

Place your seared chicken breasts in a lightly greased baking dish. Pour that luscious cream cheese sauce evenly over them. Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve with Love

Once done baking, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic over rice or pasta for an unforgettable meal! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Cooking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a deliciously creamy baked chicken that your family will love!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly. They add a burst of flavor that dried spices simply can’t match.

• Sear the chicken well: Taking the time to sear your chicken breasts before baking not only enhances the flavor but also helps to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken every time.

• Adjust the thickness of the sauce: If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more chicken broth during cooking. This allows you to customize the creaminess to your liking without compromising on taste.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.

• Experiment with cheeses: While Parmesan adds a wonderful nutty flavor, mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can create a unique twist to this classic dish!

How to Serve Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Presentation is key when serving this delightful dish! Here are some creative ideas to make your meal even more inviting.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors of the dish.

• Lemon zest: A light sprinkling of lemon zest right before serving offers a refreshing contrast that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the baked chicken.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a healthy crunch that balances out the creamy sauce.

• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette offers a nutritious complement to your meal while adding texture.

• Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender, asparagus brings an elegant touch and earthy flavor that works harmoniously with the creamy chicken.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have an impressive meal that’s sure to delight everyone at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! It stores well, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the dish completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container, or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through (about 20-25 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave on medium heat until warmed, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about this delightful dish.

Can I make Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.

What can I serve with Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal.

Can I substitute cream cheese in the Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic recipe?

Absolutely! You can try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you prefer.

How long does it take to cook Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic?

The total cooking time is approximately 35 minutes after searing the chicken, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful.

Is Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic suitable for kids?

Yes! This dish is very kid-friendly due to its creamy sauce and mild flavors. It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you’re serving it to family or just treating yourself after a long day, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to try it out – I’d love to hear how it turns out for you!

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