Recipe Ideas

Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Okay, friend, let me tell you about this Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a hug on a plate, you know? I remember my grandma making something similar when I was little, and the whole house would smell like comfort. It’s easier than lasagna, way more flavorful than plain baked chicken, and seriously, the creamy sauce? Forget about it. Even my pickiest eater begs for seconds, and that’s saying something. This is comfort food at its finest, and I promise it’ll become a regular in your rotation too.

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Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken?

Think of Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken as the ultimate weeknight dinner savior. It’s essentially chicken breasts baked in a tangy, cheesy sour cream sauce. Sounds simple, right? That’s because it IS! But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the flavor is anything but basic. The sour cream adds this amazing creamy tanginess that cuts through the richness of the cheese, and it all bakes together into this bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the kind of dish you can throw together with pantry staples and still impress everyone at the table.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Okay, let me count the ways why I’m obsessed with this Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken. First, the flavor is just incredible. The combination of the savory chicken, the tangy sour cream, and the melted cheese is seriously addictive. It’s comforting, yet not overly heavy. Second, it’s ridiculously easy to make. I mean, we’re talking minimal prep time and mostly hands-off baking. This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily swap out different cheeses, add veggies, or even use different cuts of chicken. It’s truly a blank canvas for your creativity. Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Chicken breasts are relatively inexpensive, and the other ingredients are things you probably already have on hand. Seriously, this recipe checks all the boxes for a perfect family meal. It is so much better than just your average baked chicken recipe.

How to Make Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Quick Overview

Making this Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a breeze. You basically layer seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, smother them in a cheesy sour cream sauce, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes of active cooking time. No fancy techniques or special equipment required. It’s seriously the perfect recipe for beginner cooks or anyone who wants a delicious meal without a ton of effort.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Aim for about 6-8 ounces each. Thicker breasts will take longer to cook, so either pound them to an even thickness or adjust the baking time.
* 1 teaspoon salt: I prefer sea salt or kosher salt for a cleaner flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground is always best!
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a nice savory note.
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of color and smoky flavor.

What is Cheesy Sour Cream Sauce?
* 16 ounces sour cream: Full-fat, full-flavored, gives the best flavor and texture. Can you use light sour cream? Sharp cheddar adds a nice bite, but you can use any cheese you like. How do I substitute mozzarella for Monterey Jack? What are some good ways to add chives to a cheese? For a pop of freshness and flavor. You can substitute dried chives if you don’t have fresh. * 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy depth of flavor to the sauce. What is the secret ingredient in Worcestershire sauce? What is the best garlic powder to add to a sauce? Why can’t you have too much garlic?

Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

What are the steps in

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. How do I clean a chicken? I always do this first so the oven is ready when I am!

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Set aside. What is the best way to spread the mixture over chicken breasts? What is the best seasoning for chicken?

Step 3: Arrange Chicken in Dish

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overlapping, so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Sour Cream Sauce

In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, Parmesan cheese, chives, Dijon mustard, and salt to taste. Set aside. Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder. Mix well. What happens when you mix everything well together?

Step 5: Spread Sauce Over Chicken

Spread the cheesy sour cream sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re completely covered. What’s going to keep the chicken moist and flavorful during baking?

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbling. Is bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). I always use a meat thermometer.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Remove chicken from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to redistribute chicken juices?

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

What are some good side dishes to serve with Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken? What are some ideas?

What should I serve it with?

What do you serve with this Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken? What are the possibilities?What is a good weeknight meal?Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad. Can you go wrong with a classic green veggie to balance the richness of the chicken?For a Heartier Meal:Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or quinoa. What are some great ways to soak up that delicious cheesy sauce?For a Special Occasion: A special occasion Garlic bread, roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts or carrots), or a fancy salad with cranberries and walnuts.

My family loves it with a side of buttered egg noodles – pure comfort food! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different sides to find your perfect combination.

How do I make a Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken?

What is the best recipe for Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken?Don’t overcook a chicken: WhatWhat is the biggest mistake people make when overcooked chicken is dry and tough? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Don’t let it go any higher.Use Full-Fat Sour Cream:What is the difference between a good sauce and an awful sauce? Light sour cream will work in a pinch, but the full-fat version is so much richer and creamier. I’ve tried both and full-fat wins every time.Don’t skimp on cheese. You can eat aWhat makes this dish so good is the cheese! What are some good cheeses to use? I love sharp cheddar and Parmesan, but you can also add Monterey Jack, or even a little bit of Peppermint. What’s a little pepper jack?Add Veggies: Add someHow do I sneak in extra nutrients? Add some chopped veggies to the sauce, like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or diced bell peppers. Just make sure they’re cooked through before adding the sauce.Get Creative with Seasoning: What is the best way to get creativeDon’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings. What are some good Italian seasonings? I’ve added smoked paprika before – gives it a great flavor.Let It Rest:After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. What is the best way to redistribute chicken juices? Is it worth the wait?

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

Got leftovers? No problem! This Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken stores and reheats beautifully.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each chicken breast individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This will prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, you can microwave the chicken for a few minutes, or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If baking, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the baking dish to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since we’re using a baked-on cheesy sauce, you don’t really need to worry about glaze timing here. The sauce stays put!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just make sure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (some brands contain gluten). The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs will be more moist and flavorful. You’ll need to adjust the baking time, as thighs take longer to cook than breasts. Bake them until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C).
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, and diced bell peppers are all great additions. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the dish, so they’re not too crunchy.
What kind of cheese can I use?
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese you like! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack would all be delicious.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

Seriously, this Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a recipe you’ll make again and again. It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can customize it to your liking. If you’re craving simple comfort food, I have a feeling this is going to be your new go-to. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how yours turns out! And if you’re looking for more easy chicken recipes, be sure to check out my other blog posts. Happy cooking!

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Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

How to Make the Best Creamy Baked Chicken with Mushrooms and Cheese

This delicious creamy baked chicken features a tantalizing blend of sautéed mushrooms, rich cream sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. A delightful meal for cozy evenings.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs approximately 5-6 oz each
  • 8 ounces mushrooms sliced
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add mushrooms and sauté until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
    6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish in a single layer. Season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
    6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Pour the sautéed mushrooms over the chicken. Add heavy cream evenly. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
    6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
    6 pieces boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Notes

Enjoy this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans.

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