Cheesy Cream Baked Chicken – A Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Favorite

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this Cheesy Cream Baked Chicken is the perfect choice! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a decadent cream sauce and topped with golden, bubbly cheese, this recipe is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Let’s get started on this comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the cream sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

For topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Season the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (They don’t need to be fully cooked as they’ll finish in the oven.)
2. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
3. Add Dijon mustard, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cream sauce over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, ensuring they are evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle the additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and serve with your favorite sides, such as garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp salad.

Pro Tips

• For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce before baking.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes into the cream sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Cream Baked Chicken is an easy and comforting dinner option that’s packed with flavor. The creamy sauce and gooey cheese make it a crowd-pleasing dish for weeknight meals or special gatherings. Give this recipe a try and let it become a regular on your dinner menu!

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