This rich and cozy baked chicken dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy garlic sauce and topped with perfectly melted, golden cheese. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the chicken
4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the creamy sauce
3 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (warm)
½ cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
For the topping
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 190°C / 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden. Do not cook through. Transfer chicken to the prepared baking dish.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking. Add heavy cream and continue whisking until the sauce thickens.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, thyme, and nutmeg. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Pour the sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden.
For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end (watch closely).
Remove from oven and rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables balances the richness perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra creamy and cheesy
- Juicy, tender chicken
- Easy ingredients, big flavor
- Perfect make-ahead meal
- Crowd-pleasing comfort food