Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share something truly special with you – my love. What is your family’s all-What are some good Baked Chicken recipes?Recipe. Seriously, this dish is legendary in our house. What’s the kind of meal that makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside, like getting a hug on cold days. If you love chicken parmesan, but sometimes crave something even simpler and more comforting, then you are in the right place. Is there a way I can try this? Is chicken parmesan the easiest, cheesier, more weeknight-friendly cousin of ham? Is it just as satisfying? My kids literally cheer when they see it on the table, and honestly, I do too!
What is Cheesy Baked Chicken?
What is magic?What are some good baked chicken recipes?Think of it as tender, juicy Chicken Breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to golden brown. What is comfort food? Is it fancy? Is it the kind of dish that reminds me of my grandma’s cooking – simple, honest, and made with love? What is the kind of food that makes you feel good from the inside out? What exactly is this?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some of the reasons why I adore this blog?What are some good baked chicken recipes?First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The creamy sauce, combined with the melted cheese and juicy chicken, is a symphony of deliciousness. Is it savory, comforting, and just plain good? What are some of the easiest recipes to make? What are some of the most basic ingredients that you already have in your pantry? What’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights? Is it also very cost effective? Chicken breasts are a relatively inexpensive protein source, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. What I love about this recipe is its versatility. Can you serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or just a salad? Is this a crowd pleaser that everyone will love? What are some Easy Chicken recipes? If you love chicken, this will be your new go-to. Is this one a winner?
How do I make cheesy baked chicken?
Quick Overview
Making this What are some good baked chicken recipes?Is it easier than you think? How do you make a Creamy Chicken sauce? Next, layer everything in a baking dish, top with lots of cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden. What is the best part? This recipe requires minimal effort and yields maximum flavor. What’s a set-it-and-forget kind of meal?
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (about 6-8 ounces each). Make sure they are similar in size for even cooking.
* 1 tablespoon olive oil. You can substitute with avocado oil if you prefer.
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Freshly minced garlic works too (about 2 cloves), but garlic powder is quick and easy!
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a nice savory depth.
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika. For a touch of color and smoky flavor.
* Salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
What is Cheesy Sauce?
* 4 tablespoons butter. Unsalted is best, so you can control the saltiness.
* 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour. This helps thicken the sauce.
* 2 cups milk. Whole milk makes for the creamiest sauce, but 2% works fine too. I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it turned out great!
* 1 cup chicken broth. Low-sodium is always a good idea.
* 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened. This is the key to the creamy texture! Make sure it’s softened, or you’ll end up with lumps.
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Adds a classic Italian flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Just a little extra garlic boost!
* Salt and pepper to taste.
For the Cheese Topping: 1 tsp
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. The classic choice for melty, cheesy goodness.
* 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese. Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
How do I get
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do you prevent chicken from sticking to your skin? I always do this first, so the oven is ready to go when I am!
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika. Set aside. If you have a Chicken Breast, rub this mixture all over it. Make sure it’s evenly coated. What is the best seasoning for a food?
Step 3: Sear the Chicken (Optional)
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the salt and pepper to taste How do you cook chicken breasts? This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor and helps to seal in the juices. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until smooth. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth, making sure to break up any lumps. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Cream Cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Salt, and pepper. Cook until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Do not overcook.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Cover and bake for 15 minutes. How do I spread the cheesy sauce over chicken? Sprinkle with mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and Flavorful Chicken. Slice and serve with your favorite side.
What do you serve it with?
This How do I make baked chicken?Is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?
For a Classic Meal: Serve with a side of pasta (linguine or spaghetti work great) and a simple green salad. You can even toss the pasta with some of the extra cheesy sauce for an extra decadent treat!
For a Healthy Option: Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. The cheesy chicken adds a deliciousness that even the pickiest eaters will love!
For a Comfort Food Feast: Serve with Mashed Potatoes and gravy. This is the ultimate comfort food combination, perfect for a cozy night in.
For a Quick & Easy Dinner: Serve with a side of rice and steamed Green Beans. This is a simple and satisfying meal that comes together in no time.
My family also loves it with garlic bread on the side – perfect for soaking up all that delicious cheesy sauce! Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of these options. Just choose your favorite sides and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Baked Chicken
Want to take your cheesy baked chicken to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:
Pounding the Chicken: For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This also helps to tenderize the chicken. I usually put the chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap before pounding to prevent it from splattering.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The biggest mistake you can make is overcooking the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough.
Use High-Quality Cheese: The cheese is a key ingredient in this recipe, so use the best quality you can afford. Freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
Add Some Veggies: Sneak in some extra nutrients by adding chopped vegetables to the cheesy sauce. Mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers all work well. Just sauté them before adding them to the sauce.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheesy sauce. You can also use a spicier cheese, like pepper jack, for the topping.
Get Creative with the Toppings: In addition to mozzarella and parmesan, you can also use other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or fontina. You can also add some breadcrumbs or chopped herbs to the topping for extra texture and flavor.
One time, I accidentally added a little too much milk to the sauce, and it ended up being a bit too thin. I quickly whisked in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water, and it thickened right up! That’s my little secret weapon when sauces get a little wonky.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your cheesy baked chicken:
Refrigerating: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Reheating in the Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a paper towel. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, or it will become dry.
Reheating on the Stovetop: Place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
The cheesy sauce might separate a bit upon reheating, but don’t worry, it will still taste delicious! Just give it a good stir before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s beloved cheesy baked chicken recipe! I truly hope you give this one a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress your friends and family, this recipe is sure to deliver. If you love this, you might also enjoy my creamy garlic chicken or even a simple baked mac and cheese – both offer that ultimate comfort food experience! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, be sure to share them with me – I’m always looking for new ideas!
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Cheesy Baked Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb Boneless, skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 0.5 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 packet Ranch dressing mix
- 2 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together sour cream, mayonnaise, and ranch dressing mix.
- Place chicken pieces in a baking dish and spread the sour cream mixture over the chicken.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted and bubbly.
