Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings. This recipe highlights tender chicken breasts seared to perfection, enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce made from cream cheese and Parmesan. It’s not just easy to prepare, but it also promises a burst of flavor that will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce, combined with garlic and Parmesan, creates a deliciously comforting meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for serving with sides like rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of flavors appeals to both adults and children alike.
• Low Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can have dinner on the table in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for searing the chicken to lock in flavors before baking.
• Baking dish: Provides an even cooking surface for the chicken and sauce combination.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency when mixing the cream cheese with broth.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurately portioned ingredients for consistent results.

Ingredients

For this Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Sauce

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

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Topping

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season each chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for searing, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Place seared chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over them until well covered.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for about 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic!

How to Serve Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Serving Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green color and slight crunch add a fresh contrast.
• Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a delightful flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes enhance the dish’s richness while balancing the flavors.
• Fettuccine: Serve the chicken over fettuccine for a hearty meal, allowing the sauce to coat the pasta.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy bite that complements the creamy chicken.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

To ensure your Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the dish’s flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
• Sear for Flavor: Searing the chicken before baking creates a beautiful crust and locks in moisture, resulting in tender meat.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your cream sauce before pouring it over the chicken; adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption but avoid overcooking to keep it juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair well with this rich chicken dish.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your plate.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness and texture.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
4. Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a delightful crunch.
5. Couscous Pilaf: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs offers an easy-to-make side that absorbs flavors well.
6. Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw adds crunchiness and a tangy note that balances the creaminess of the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using cold cream cheese – Always soften cream cheese before mixing it into the sauce. Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your sauce.
• Skipping the searing step – Searing chicken breasts enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for a satisfying dish.
• Not measuring seasonings – Seasoning too lightly or too heavily can affect taste. Use precise measurements for spices to achieve the best flavor balance.
• Overbaking the chicken – Keep an eye on cooking times. Overbaking can dry out the chicken, so check its temperature early.
• Ignoring resting time – Letting the chicken rest after baking allows juices to redistribute. Skipping this step can lead to dry meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for 20–25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, checking every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic.

Can I use different cheeses?

You can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique taste. Just ensure they melt well.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What side dishes go well with creamy baked chicken?

Pair it with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is not only comforting but also easy to customize. Feel free to add vegetables or swap out proteins based on your preferences. It’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Baked Chicken with Parmesan and Garlic is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to the dinner table in no time. Featuring tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream cheese and Parmesan, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you can have a flavorful dish ready to impress family and friends. The combination of garlic and Italian herbs enhances the savory profile, making this an instant crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
4. In the same skillet, whisk together softened cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Place seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the sauce evenly over it.
6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 110mg