Are you craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s also quick and easy to prepare? Look no further! This creamy oven-baked chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a healthy, delicious dish that the whole family will love, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet satisfying recipe.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown finish.
Preparing the Chicken and Sauce:
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Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. This simple step significantly enhances the flavor.
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Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes per side, just to lightly brown them. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will thicken the sauce beautifully.
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Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Baking to Perfection:
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Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and thyme over the chicken.
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Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving and Enjoying:
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness.
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Serve this creamy chicken breast over your favorite pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes after baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your dish. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato Chicken: Add 1 cup of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy twist.
- Mushroom Chicken: Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.
- Spinach and Artichoke Chicken: Stir in 1 cup of chopped spinach and 1/2 cup of artichoke hearts during the last few minutes of baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
This easy and delicious creamy chicken breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the satisfying flavors of this best recipe! It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.