April 1 2025

Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Breast

Hey there! I’m so excited to share this super-easy and delicious recipe with you today – Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Breast.

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably always looking for a way to make dinner both quick and tasty, without spending forever in the kitchen. Well, this recipe is absolutely perfect for that!

You’ll love how tender and juicy the chicken turns out, with a rich, creamy sauce that’s just irresistible.

It’s one of those meals that looks fancy but is actually super simple to make.

And, it’s great for any night of the week – whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even a special dinner with friends.

I promise, you won’t believe how easy it is to throw together. I know you’re going to love it, and I can’t wait for you to try it out! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why This Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast is a Must-Try

This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is the perfect balance of flavor and ease.

The chicken stays super juicy, while the creamy sauce adds a rich, mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

It’s incredibly simple to make, you just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen itself!

With only about 35 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal ready in no time. Trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup heavy cream (you can substitute with half-and-half or milk for a lighter option)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or use rosemary for a different flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

This recipe is super flexible, but feel free to adjust the seasonings or use what you have on hand!

How to Cook Creamy Oven-Baked Chicken Breast: Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven: Set that oven to 375°F (190°C). Let it warm up while you get everything ready.
Season the chicken: Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel (this helps them cook better). Rub them with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or rosemary). Get a nice, even coating!
Sear the chicken (optional, but worth it): Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds flavor, but you can skip it if you’re in a rush.
Prepare the creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Stir until everything’s nicely mixed together.
Pour the sauce over the chicken: Transfer the seared (or raw, if you skipped that step) chicken breasts to a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s all covered.
Bake away: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F inside. You’ll know it’s done when the sauce is bubbling and the chicken is juicy.
Garnish & serve: Once done, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color (and extra flavor). Serve it hot, and watch your guests go wild!

Enjoy your creamy, crispy, oh-so-delicious chicken dinner! 🍽️

Calories & Nutritional Info

This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is a delicious, satisfying dish that won’t derail your healthy eating goals.

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: About 400-450 calories per serving
Protein: 40g (perfect for muscle-building or staying full longer)
Fat: 30g (including healthy fats from the olive oil and cream)
Carbs: 4g (mostly from the cream and Parmesan cheese)
Fiber: 0g (minimal carbs, making this a great option for low-carb diets)

Notes:

For a lighter version: You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. This will cut down the fat and calories a bit, but the dish won’t be quite as creamy.
Low-carb friendly: If you’re following a keto or low-carb plan, this recipe fits perfectly into your meals, thanks to its high protein and low carbs.
Make it gluten-free: No need to worry about gluten here – this dish is naturally gluten-free!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the seasoning

Don’t skip the salt and pepper! It might sound basic, but it’s a must. Without it, your chicken will be bland, and we don’t want that. Season generously—don’t be shy!

Not preheating the oven

If you throw the chicken in before the oven is hot, you’re just wasting time. Preheat to 375°F before you start, so everything cooks evenly and quickly.

Overcooking the chicken

Chicken breast can dry out if you cook it too long. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F. This is your secret weapon for juicy, perfectly cooked chicken.

Skipping the sear

Okay, I get it – you’re in a hurry. But trust me, searing the chicken adds a nice golden crust and deep flavor. If you skip it, you’re missing out.

Not making enough sauce

If you don’t make enough sauce to cover the chicken, you might end up with dry bits. Be generous with that creamy goodness. You want every bite to be heavenly.

Not letting the chicken rest

Resist the urge to cut into it right away. Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after baking so the juices stay inside. Patience is key here!

Avoid these mistakes, and you’ll be on your way to chicken perfection every single time.

Variations & Customizations

Keto-Friendly Version: Want to keep it low-carb? Skip the heavy cream’s carbs by using coconut cream instead! It’ll still give you that rich, creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor. You can also serve it with cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach for a complete, keto-approved meal.
A Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, turn up the spice by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also mix in some chopped jalapeños for an extra punch. Now we’re talking!
Vegetarian Twist: Can’t do chicken? No problem! Swap the chicken breasts for portobello mushrooms or tofu (pressed to remove excess moisture). Both will soak up the creamy sauce and make for a tasty vegetarian alternative that still feels indulgent.

Feel free to get creative! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super adaptable to your personal taste.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Plate it Up: Start by placing the chicken breast in the center of each plate. You want to make sure the creamy sauce is generously spooned over the top – it’s the star of the show, after all!

Garnish for Extra Flavor and Color: A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal kick. If you’re feeling fancy, add a few thin lemon slices on the side for a zesty contrast to the creaminess.

Pair it with a Side: Serve the chicken with something that complements the rich sauce. Roasted vegetables (like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus) or a simple side of mashed potatoes work beautifully. You can also go low-carb with cauliflower rice or a green salad.

Keep it Elegant: For a more elegant touch, serve the chicken on a white or light-colored plate to make the creamy sauce stand out. You can even drizzle a little extra sauce around the edge of the plate for that restaurant-worthy look.

Let the Chicken Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes. This will keep the juices inside, making it even more tender and juicy when you cut into it.

Recipe Best Tips

Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken before baking helps lock in those juicy flavors and gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in taste!

Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken every time, use a meat thermometer. Aim for 165°F in the center of the chicken to ensure it’s safe to eat and wonderfully juicy.

Make Extra Sauce: Always make a little extra sauce—trust me, you’ll want it. The sauce is so creamy and flavorful, it’s great for dipping or pouring over side dishes like mashed potatoes or veggies.

Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before cutting into it. This helps the juices settle, so the chicken stays nice and tender.

Customize the Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to play with the flavors. Add more garlic if you love it, throw in some fresh lemon zest for a zesty twist, or add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.

Storage and Freezing

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the chicken cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm it gently in a skillet on low heat to avoid drying it out.

Freezing

This recipe also freezes well! To freeze, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Place the wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it’ll stay good for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as usual.

A tip: Freezing the sauce separately will help keep it creamy once reheated!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well, and they’ll be even juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then refrigerate them separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. When it hits 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken, it’s perfectly done. If you don’t have one, slice the chicken to make sure the juices run clear.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Swap the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What should I serve with this chicken?
This creamy chicken goes great with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach are perfect sides!
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick. You can also toss in a few chopped jalapeños for an extra layer of heat.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! This recipe freezes really well. Just store the chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers, and it will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Conclusion

And there you have it—your new favorite dinner! This Creamy Oven Baked Chicken Breast is so easy, so delicious, and so much better than anything you could pick up from the store.

I bet you’ll never go back to store-bought again once you taste this homemade goodness. 😉

Now, I’d love to see your version! Feel free to share your photos and tweaks; I’m always excited to see how you make the recipe your own.

So, go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the creamy magic you just created.

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