When you’re craving something simple yet comforting, this chicken breast recipe is the answer. Tender, juicy, and loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness it’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with cozy aromas and your table with happy faces.
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Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Recipe
This recipe is the kind of meal you’ll keep coming back to. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough for Sunday dinner. Each bite has that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that makes you forget how little effort it actually takes. You’ll love it because:
- It uses everyday ingredients you probably already have
- The creamy topping locks in moisture so your chicken never dries out
- It’s versatile serve it with pasta, veggies, or a light salad
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it meal-prep friendly
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this juicy chicken breast recipe:
- 3 pounds boneless chicken breasts, trimmed
- 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt if you prefer)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated (reserve ½ cup for topping)
Ingredient swaps and variations: - Try mayo instead of sour cream for extra richness
- Switch Parmesan with sharp cheddar, Gruyere, or Asiago for new flavor twists
- Add smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian herbs for a different spin
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish and set it aside.
Make the Creamy Mixture
In a medium bowl, stir together sour cream, garlic powder, seasoned salt, pepper, and 1 cup Parmesan until smooth.
Layer the Chicken
Arrange chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.
Bake to Juicy Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
Add That Golden Finish
Switch oven to broil and cook 2–3 minutes more until the topping turns bubbly and golden brown. Serve warm and watch it disappear.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Breasts
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy 165°F is the sweet spot.
- Prep ahead: Assemble the chicken with topping, cover, and refrigerate up to a day before baking.
- Extra liquid in the pan? Totally normal! Just spoon it off or stir it into the sauce for extra flavor.
- Thinner chicken cooks faster: Pound chicken breasts for even thickness if needed.
Serving Ideas
This creamy chicken breast goes with just about anything. A few favorites:
- Buttered egg noodles or mashed potatoes to soak up that sauce
- Roasted broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a colorful plate
- Garlic bread for extra dipping fun
- For a hearty dinner combo, serve alongside this creamy white chicken chili.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave for quick meals, or bake at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep it tender.
- Freezing: Not recommended sour cream can separate after thawing.
Variations You Can Try
- Smoky: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to the topping.
- Herby: Stir in fresh basil, oregano, or thyme.
- Cheesy twist: Swap in Gruyere, Asiago, or sharp cheddar.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for a little kick.
FAQ – Chicken Breast Recipe Questions Answered
How do you keep chicken breast juicy in the oven?
Bake at the right temp and don’t overcook. The creamy topping locks in moisture, but a thermometer is your best friend.
Can I use mayonnaise instead of sour cream?
Yes! Mayo adds a rich, slightly tangy flavor. It also helps create a golden crust on top when baked.
What sides go best with this recipe?
It pairs beautifully with creamy sides like mashed potatoes, light options like lemon chicken orzo soup, or cozy dishes like homestyle chicken and gravy.
Final Thoughts
This chicken breast recipe is pure comfort food creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor without fuss. It’s the kind of dinner you’ll want on repeat, whether it’s a cozy family night or meal prep for the week ahead. Try it tonight, and don’t forget to leave a comment, share your twist, or pin it for later.
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Chicken Breast Recipe That’s Juicy and Flavorful Every Time
Ingredients
- 3 pounds boneless chicken breasts trimmed
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese reserve ½ cup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix sour cream, garlic powder, seasoned salt, pepper, and 1 cup Parmesan until smooth.
- Arrange chicken breasts in the baking dish. Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the top, then sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temp of 165°F.
- Switch oven to broil and cook 2–3 minutes more until the topping is golden and bubbly. Serve warm.