If you’re searching for a delightful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Bake! It’s creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor, all while being surprisingly easy to prepare. Guaranteed to impress your family and friends, this one-pan wonder is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Get ready to indulge in every delectable bite!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Bake is approximately $15.75, which breaks down to about $3.94 per serving for four people. With ingredients that won’t break the bank, you can savor a gourmet meal without feeling the pinch in your wallet!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a culinary celebration of flavors all in one dish! The creamy garlic sauce cloaks juicy chicken and aromatic herbs, creating a satisfying meal that’s comforting yet sophisticated. Plus, with just a single pan involved, you’ll spend more time enjoying the meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans. It’s all the convenience of a weeknight dinner with the elegance of a restaurant-quality dish!
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts ($8.00)
- 1 cup heavy cream ($1.50)
- 1 cup chicken broth ($0.75)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil ($0.25)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced ($0.50)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano ($0.15)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme ($0.15)
- Salt and pepper to taste ($0.05)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish ($0.40)
Optional substitutions include using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version or swapping the chicken for tofu to create a plant-based dish!
Step-by-step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A warm oven is crucial because it allows the chicken to cook evenly and lock in those juicy flavors. Grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance the golden-brown finish later on.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for about 5 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. This method gifts the chicken a beautiful caramelized exterior and infusing it with flavors that will shine through in the bake.
Step 3: While the chicken is searing, prepare your creamy garlic sauce. In a bowl, mix the heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic, oregano, and thyme until well combined. This luscious mixture is where the magic happens, transforming your average chicken into a succulent feast! Pour this mixture over the partially cooked chicken in the baking dish.
Step 4: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). This will ensure your chicken is tender and that the sauce has absorbed all those delightful flavors.
Step 5: Once cooked, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to lightly brown the top. The bubbling sauce and the herby aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it nearly impossible to wait! Once it’s ready, let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the delicious juices to settle.
Nutritional Facts
Here’s what you’re getting in each serving:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Total Fats: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce nice and silky!
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken Bake pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette also complements the dish beautifully, allowing the richness of the chicken to shine through.
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce. If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a deliciously cheesy crust. And remember, the beauty of cooking is making the recipe your own—don’t hesitate to tweak it based on your preferences!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless thighs would add even more juiciness and rich flavor to the dish!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble everything and store it in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with this dish? This dish goes well with rice, pasta, or any green veggies. The creamy sauce makes for a delicious addition to whatever you choose!
Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Yes! Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat the chicken slowly to prevent drying out.
Can I add vegetables to the baking dish? Definitely! Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers would add color, nutrition, and flavor!
