Cheesy Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe

A comforting and flavorful chicken bake with tender chicken pieces in a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • Chicken:
    • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Sauce:
    • 1 medium onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 4 tablespoons butter
    • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 2 cups chicken broth
    • 1 cup heavy cream
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Topping (optional):
    • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
    • 2 tablespoons melted butter.
    • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
    • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.  
    • Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
    • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Add the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese, and stir until melted and smooth.
    • Stir in the dried thyme and red pepper flakes (if using).
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Bake:
    • Add the browned chicken pieces to the creamy sauce and stir to coat.
    • Pour the chicken and sauce mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  4. Add Topping (Optional):
    • In a small bowl mix the breadcrumbs and melted butter.
    • Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken and sauce.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping (if used) is golden brown.
  6. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
    • Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dish.

Tips and Variations:

  • Add vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor.
  • For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce.
  • For a different topping, crushed ritz crackers are a great option.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or cream to thin it out.
  • If the sauce is too thin, create a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of cold water, and slowly whisk into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

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