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
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- 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
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and then heavy cream.
- Add Dijon mustard, thyme, pepper, salt, and Parmesan. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Transfer seared chicken to a greased baking dish.
- Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- 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:
- High Protein: Each serving is packed with lean chicken breast, ideal for muscle maintenance and satiety.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Rich in flavor and texture, this dish hits every comfort food craving.
- Customizable: Can be adapted for keto by using cream and low-carb sides.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
- Great for Meal Prep: Holds up well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Estimated for 1/4th of Recipe):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| 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.