Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it is not only incredibly simple to prepare, but it also delivers on flavor and texture. The creamy, savory topping contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep and cooks quickly. Moreover, it’s a great way to introduce your family to new flavors without overwhelming them. Whether served with a side of vegetables or over a bed of rice, this Creamy Parmesan Chicken Bake is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended into a smooth mixture.
Step 3: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs. This combination will create a delicious, crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the sour cream-coated chicken.
Step 5: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The dish is ready when the chicken is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Creamy Parmesan Chicken Bake hot from the oven. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta, allowing the creamy sauce to soak in.
Tips:
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the sour cream mixture for a few hours or overnight before baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses; mozzarella or cheddar can add a different flavor profile.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sour cream mixture for a subtle kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
25-30 minutes
Total Time:
35-40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Chicken Bake is a fantastic dish to add to your repertoire. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the dish. Cooking from frozen can result in uneven cooking and a longer baking time.
2. What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It will provide a similar creaminess and tanginess to the dish.
3. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep! You can portion out the chicken into individual containers with your choice of sides for easy, reheatable meals throughout the week.
