Are you tired of dry, bland chicken breasts? Do you dream of a weeknight dinner that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This melt-in-your-mouth baked chicken breast recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s so juicy and tender, you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life. Perfect for busy evenings, this easy chicken recipe uses simple ingredients to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Get ready to transform your dinner routine!
Quick Glance: Time & Servings
One of the best things about this easy baked chicken breast recipe is how quickly it comes together. In less than an hour, you can have a fantastic meal on the table!
- Prep Time: Just 10 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes, depending on your oven and chicken thickness.
- Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes from start to finish.
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 generous chicken breasts, ideal for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week.
What You’ll Need: Simple Ingredients for Amazing Flavor
No fancy ingredients here! You likely have most of these pantry staples already. The magic lies in how they come together to create that irresistible creamy chicken.
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (trimmed): The star of our show! Look for evenly sized breasts for consistent cooking.
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt): This is our secret weapon for juicy chicken. It tenderizes the meat and creates a rich, tangy sauce. Greek yogurt is a fantastic, healthier alternative!
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder: For that classic, comforting garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt: Adds a balanced savory kick. Adjust to your preference!
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A touch of warmth and spice.
- 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided: The cheesy, golden crust that makes this dish truly melt-in-your-mouth. Freshly grated makes all the difference!
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Baked Chicken
Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly baked chicken breasts that are tender on the inside and beautifully golden on the outside. This is truly an easy weeknight dinner!
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Whip Up the Creamy Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), garlic powder, seasoned salt, black pepper, and 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where all the flavor comes from!
- Arrange the Chicken: Place your trimmed boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overlapping too much for even cooking.
- Coat and Top: Generously spread the sour cream mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create that amazing cheesy crust!
- Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The most important thing is to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy – it’s your best friend for juicy chicken!
- Optional Golden Finish: For an extra golden, bubbly, and irresistible top, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the very end. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken breasts are incredibly juicy and tender. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success: Elevate Your Baked Chicken Game
Want to make this baked chicken breast even better? These pro tips will help you master this easy chicken recipe and ensure perfect results every time.
- Storage Savvy: Have leftovers? Lucky you! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for a fantastic quick lunch the next day.
- Reheating Right: To reheat, microwave until warmed through or bake at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, to prevent drying out. Nobody likes dry chicken!
- Ingredient Swaps: Don’t have sour cream? No problem! Greek yogurt or even mayonnaise can be used as substitutes for a similar creamy texture. Feel free to experiment with other sharp cheeses like Asiago or Gruyère instead of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile chicken recipe pairs beautifully with so many sides! Think creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or a medley of roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic sliced over a fresh salad or tucked into a sandwich.
Nutrition at a Glance (Estimated)
For those mindful of their macros, here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Remember, these are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients and preparation methods.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
| 1 chicken breast | 280 | 35g | 2g | 12g | 0.5g | 1g |
Disclaimer:
These nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. For precise dietary advice, please consult a qualified nutritionist.
