Creamy Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken

Description:

This is a rich, comforting, oven-baked chicken dish blanketed in a velvety garlic cream sauce and finished with golden, bubbly cheese. It’s a perfect dinner centerpiece that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for lighter option)
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Topping:

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions & Methods:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter and sear the chicken on both sides until golden (about 3-4 minutes per side). Don’t cook it through — it will finish in the oven.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Sprinkle flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and then heavy cream.
  4. Add Dijon mustard, thyme, pepper, salt, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

  1. Transfer seared chicken to a greased baking dish.
  2. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken.
  3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve

  • Let the dish rest for 5 minutes.
  • Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
  • Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, pasta, or crusty bread.

Benefits:

  1. High Protein: Each serving is packed with lean chicken breast, ideal for muscle maintenance and satiety.
  2. Comforting and Satisfying: Rich in flavor and texture, this dish hits every comfort food craving.
  3. Customizable: Can be adapted for keto by using cream and low-carb sides.
  4. Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
  5. Great for Meal Prep: Holds up well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Estimated for 1/4th of Recipe):

NutrientAmount
Calories~520 kcal
Protein~45 g
Fat~35 g
Carbohydrates~7 g
Fiber~0.5 g
Sugar~1 g
Sodium~500 mg
Calcium~300 mg

Note: Nutrition will vary based on cream and cheese choices.

Methods & Cooking Tips:

  • Searing First: Searing locks in flavor and gives the chicken a great texture.
  • Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella with provolone, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
  • Don’t Overbake: Overcooking chicken dries it out — use a thermometer.
  • Add Veggies: Spinach, mushrooms, or asparagus go great in the sauce.
  • Make it Spicy: Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Conclusion:

Creamy Baked Cheesy Garlic Chicken is a crowd-pleasing comfort dish that’s incredibly easy to make and feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting dinner guests or just want a hearty weeknight meal, this recipe brings elegance and indulgence without the stress.

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