Name: Creamy Baked Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 4 oz cream cheese or 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Creamy baked chicken is one of those comforting, satisfying dishes that never fails to impress. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and baked to perfection, resulting in a cozy meal that feels both homey and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe I turn to when I want something hearty with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish comes together so easily while tasting like something much more involved. The creamy sauce keeps the chicken moist and flavorful, and it pairs beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. It’s also a great recipe to make ahead, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day. Creamy Baked Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Garlic
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Chicken broth
Cream cheese or sour cream
Olive oil or butter
Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Then, I season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
In a skillet, I heat a little olive oil or butter and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side, just to give it some color.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic, and cream cheese until smooth.
I transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, then pour the creamy sauce over it.
If I’m using Parmesan, I sprinkle it on top before baking.
I bake the dish uncovered for about 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling and slightly thickened.
I garnish it with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 40–45 minutes total—around 10–15 minutes for prep and 25–30 minutes to bake.

Variations

Sometimes I add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. If I want a bit of spice, I include a pinch of red pepper flakes. I’ve also swapped the cream cheese for sour cream or added a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist. For a lower-fat version, I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and lighten up on the cheese.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven or microwave. If I’m reheating in the oven, I cover the dish with foil and warm it at 325°F until heated through. In the microwave, I reheat in short bursts and stir in between to keep the sauce smooth. Creamy Baked Chicken

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I often use boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness. They work perfectly with the creamy sauce and baking time is about the same.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear and the chicken should be firm to the touch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. I prepare everything and assemble it in the baking dish, then store it covered in the fridge. When I’m ready to bake, I just pop it in the oven and may add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I serve with creamy baked chicken?

I like serving it with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted veggies. A simple green salad on the side also balances the richness nicely.

Can I freeze creamy baked chicken?

I usually avoid freezing creamy sauces, as they can separate when thawed. But if needed, I freeze it in an airtight container and reheat gently, stirring the sauce well to bring it back together.

Conclusion

Creamy baked chicken is a delicious, no-fuss meal that always delivers. With its tender chicken and rich, flavorful sauce, it’s the kind of dish I keep in my dinner rotation for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends. Whether I’m feeding my family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a comforting classic that never disappoints.