Creamy Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Bake (Print Version)
Learn my secret for tender Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken. A comforting, easy recipe with creamy sauce and golden cheese, perfect for any night.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American Comfort
Dietary: Dairy, Meat
# Ingredients:
→ Chicken & Base
01 -
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 breasts)
02 -
1 tbsp olive oil
→ Creamy Sauce Essentials
03 -
1 cup full-fat sour cream
04 -
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
05 -
1/2 cup whole milk
→ Flavor Boosters & Cheese
06 -
1 tsp garlic powder
07 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
08 -
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Garnish
10 -
Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, grab those chicken breasts. I usually give them a quick pat dry with a paper towel – it helps them get a nice sear, you know? If they're super thick, I might slice them horizontally to about 1-inch thickness. This ensures they cook through evenly and quickly, which is a lifesaver on a busy weeknight. Seriously, don't skip this step; nobody wants unevenly cooked chicken, eek!
02 -
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, carefully place your chicken in the pan. Listen for that beautiful sizzle! Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, just until it's golden brown. We're not cooking it all the way through here, just building some foundational flavor. I always forget to salt the chicken at this stage, but a pinch before searing makes a difference, trust me.
03 -
While the chicken is doing its thing, grab a medium bowl. Pour in that glorious full-fat sour cream, the cream of chicken soup, and your milk. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and looks like a creamy, dreamy cloud. This is the heart of our Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken, so make sure there are no lumps!
04 -
Now for the fun part! Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange your seared chicken breasts in a single layer at the bottom. Then, generously pour that luscious sour cream mixture over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Honestly, I sometimes sneak a tiny taste of the sauce here, it's that good. It feels so satisfying to see it all come together.
05 -
Sprinkle that gorgeous shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. Don't be shy here! This is what gives our Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken that incredible, bubbly, golden crust. Sometimes I get a little messy with the cheese around the edges of the dish, but hey, that's just extra crispy bits for later, right? It’s all part of the kitchen chaos I embrace!
06 -
Pop the dish into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. You're looking for the chicken to be cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes out of the oven before serving; it helps the sauce set up a bit. The smell filling your kitchen right now? Pure comfort! It's a moment I always look forward to.
# Notes:
01 -
A little secret: don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken, or you won't get that lovely golden crust!
02 -
This dish is even better the next day; the flavors really meld. Just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
03 -
No cheddar? Mozzarella or a Colby Jack blend works too, but cheddar gives it that classic tangy bite.
04 -
Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
mixing bowls
04 -
whisk
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 450-550
Total Fat: 30-40g
Total Carbohydrate: 10-15g
Protein: 35-45g