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A close-up shows a delicious Cheesy Herb Chicken Bake with golden-brown crust and visible herbs, perfect for a comforting meal.

Easy Cheesy Herb Chicken Bake

This Easy Cheesy Herb Chicken Bake features tender chicken breasts in a creamy, flavorful herb sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It's a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for a family dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional)
  • Plastic wrap (optional)
  • Oven
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. If chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness between two sheets of plastic wrap.
  3. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  7. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  8. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  9. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  10. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, making sure to smooth out any lumps.
  11. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  12. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and Italian seasoning.
  13. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  14. Pour the sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  15. Arrange the seared chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
  16. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken.
  17. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  18. Let the Cheesy Herb Chicken Bake rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can add chopped vegetables (mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or spinach) to the sauce. Stir in 4 ounces of softened cream cheese into the sauce along with the heavy cream for an extra creamy and tangy flavor. Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. Serve over cooked pasta for a complete meal. Crumble cooked bacon over the top before baking for a smoky twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.