Creamy Chicken Bake
A comforting, family-style casserole featuring tender chicken baked in a rich, creamy sauce with cheese and savory seasonings. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, potatoes, or vegetables.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Creamy Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-Ins
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup spinach
- ½ cup cooked bacon pieces
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken pieces with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Lightly brown chicken in a skillet for 4–5 minutes (optional but adds flavor).
2. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in cream cheese until smooth.
- Add heavy cream and chicken broth.
- Mix in mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer gently until creamy.
3. Assemble the Bake
- Place chicken in a greased baking dish.
- Add vegetables or bacon if using.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top.
4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly, golden, and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered noodles
- Steamed broccoli
- Cauliflower rice (low-carb option)
- Fresh garden salad
Variations
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake
Add extra Parmesan, garlic, and fresh herbs for a richer flavor.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Bake
Add cooked bacon and 1–2 tbsp ranch seasoning.
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake
Mix in chopped spinach and artichoke hearts for a creamy dip-inspired version.
Keto-Friendly Version
Use cauliflower instead of pasta or potatoes and keep the sauce as written.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 45 g
- Carbohydrates: 7 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
This Creamy Chicken Bake is a cozy, cheesy, and versatile comfort meal—perfect for busy nights when you want something rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare.