Creamy Baked Chicken Breasts
A delightful and straightforward baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts protein source, maintains moisture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil adds richness and helps with browning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances flavor
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning provides aromatic herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika adds color and subtle warmth
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adds a mild spice
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes optional, adds heat
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream creates a rich, creamy sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth enhances flavor and moisture
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder adds savory depth
- 1/3 cup chopped sundried tomatoes sweet, tangy bursts of flavor
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese adds salty, nutty flavor
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach adds freshness and color
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (225ºC).
- Flatten the chicken breasts to achieve an even thickness.
- Place the chicken breasts in a 9×13 baking dish without overlapping.
- Combine the salt, Italian seasoning, paprika, red chili pepper flakes, and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub the seasoning mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Add the chopped sundried tomatoes around the chicken.
Cooking
- In a bowl, whisk together the heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, and remaining salt.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture.
- Pour the mixture around the chicken in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Bake the chicken at 425ºF (225ºC) for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC).
Finishing
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir the spinach into the sauce.
- Allow the baked chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with additional chili pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
This dish pairs nicely with rice, pasta, or fresh bread. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.