When it comes to comfort food, you can’t go wrong with a dish that combines creamy goodness with succulent chicken. Creamy baked chicken breasts are not just a fantastic weeknight dinner but also a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. The rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese deliciously meld with juicy chicken, providing a meal that’s both satisfying and elegant. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for those evenings when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up creamy baked chicken breasts. For starters, this dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or even a cozy Sunday family meal. It’s quick, taking only about 30 minutes from prep to oven, and requires minimal clean-up—a major win in any home chef’s book!
Moreover, it’s budget-friendly. You likely already have many of the ingredients in your pantry. Chicken breasts are a great source of protein, and when paired with rich sauces, they transform into something extraordinary. Plus, this dish tends to appeal to kids and adults alike with its comforting flavors.
"This creamy baked chicken was a hit! It was so easy to make, and the flavor was fantastic. My kids even went back for seconds!" – A happy home cook
Preparing Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts
Understanding the cooking process is always a good starting point. This recipe comes together quickly. You’ll begin by seasoning the chicken and preparing a delightful creamy sauce infused with sun-dried tomatoes and garlic. It all finishes in a warm oven, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the chicken cooks perfectly.
Ingredients
Gather these items to create this savory recipe:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients! You can substitute fresh tomatoes for sun-dried ones or use different types of cheese like mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and cook until it becomes fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Pour this creamy sauce over the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil just before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Creamy baked chicken breasts are versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with buttery mashed potatoes or a light salad to balance out the richness of the sauce. For a complete meal, steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also make excellent companions. Don’t forget to drizzle the extra sauce over the sides for an added burst of flavor!
How to store & freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! After cooling, store the creamy baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure it is warmed all the way through, ideally in the oven or microwave.
For longer storage, this dish can be frozen. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven until heated through.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, try using a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is always cooked to perfection. Remember to let your chicken rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender. Additionally, if you enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a delightful kick!
Creative twists
If you’re looking to shake things up, try adding spinach or artichokes to the sauce for extra flavor. You could also swap in different cheese varieties, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist. Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the overall flavor profile.
Common questions
What is the prep time for creamy baked chicken breasts?
The prep time is about 10 minutes, making this a quick dish to put together.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well and may even result in a more tender dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate; they’ll last about 3 days.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is inherently gluten-free, so you can enjoy it without any modifications!
Creamy baked chicken breasts are an indulgent treat that everyone can enjoy, and with such ease of preparation, it surely deserves a spot in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and let it become a new favorite at your dining table!
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Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting dish combining creamy sauce and succulent chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream, then add the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If desired, garnish with fresh basil just before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, try adding spinach or artichokes to the sauce, or swap cheese varieties for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian