Description
This melt in your mouth chicken features a creamy Parmesan topping that transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a tender delight. Perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts (choose fresh, plump breasts for juiciness)
For the Creamy Topping
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (opt for freshly grated)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (substitutable with regular paprika)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Kick
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Brightness
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For the Baking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing baking dish)
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch glass baking dish with olive oil.
- Pound chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of about 1 inch.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, drizzle with olive oil.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides of the chicken.
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Fold in freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Incorporate minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and lemon juice.
- Evenly distribute the creamy mixture over each chicken breast.
- Pour low sodium chicken broth around the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, checking doneness at 165°F (74°C).
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a golden finish, covering if necessary.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving and garnish with parsley.
Notes
Ensure chicken is dried before seasoning for better flavor adherence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American