Creamy Sour Cream Chicken Bake Recipe

Golden Delight: Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Bake Recipe

Succulent chicken meets creamy, melted cheese in this irresistible sour cream chicken bake that promises pure comfort on a plate.

Golden-brown edges and a rich, tangy sauce make this dish a weeknight dinner champion.

The blend of tender chicken and velvety sour cream creates a mouthwatering experience that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Hearty and satisfying, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Weeknight dinners just got a delicious upgrade with this crowd-pleasing main course.

Let’s find out a meal that combines simplicity with stunning taste, guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Quick Recipe Overview

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Calories: 387 kcal

Servings: 5

What Goes in Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

For Protein:
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean, tender meat that absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a perfect canvas for the creamy sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth that elevates the chicken's richness and provides a gorgeous golden crust when baked.
For Creamy Base:
  • Sour Cream: Creates a luxurious, tangy sauce that keeps the chicken incredibly moist and adds a silky texture.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Delivers that irresistible, stretchy melted cheese pull with a mild, creamy flavor that complements the chicken.
For Seasoning and Binding:
  • Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth, glossy texture without lumps.
  • Dried Oregano: Introduces a classic Mediterranean herb note that brightens the entire dish.
  • Garlic Powder: Infuses deep, roasted garlic flavor without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic.
  • Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the other flavors in the recipe.

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Equipment and Utensils

  • 9×13-inch baking dish: Your main stage for this cheesy chicken masterpiece.
  • Mixing bowl: Perfect for creating that luscious, creamy sauce.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Precise tools to nail the right ingredient proportions.
  • Whisk: Essential for blending sour cream, Parmesan, and seasonings smoothly.
  • Cheese grater: Helpful if using fresh Parmesan instead of pre-grated.
  • Sharp knife: Useful for any last-minute prep or slicing after cooking.

Cooking Instructions for Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Cooking Instructions for Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken
  • Oven Preparation Kitchen Warmup

Gently heat the oven to a toasty temperature, creating a welcoming environment for our culinary adventure. Softly coat a baking dish with a light touch of oil or cooking spray.

  • Chicken Placement

Carefully nestle the chicken breasts into the prepared dish, allowing them to rest comfortably before their flavor transformation.

  • Sauce Magic

Whip together a creamy concoction blending tangy sour cream, rich Parmesan, and a whisper of seasonings. This magical mixture will elevate the chicken to new taste heights.

  • Cheese Blanket

Crown each chicken breast with a luxurious slice of melty mozzarella, then lovingly drench with the dreamy sauce mixture.

  • Baking Bliss

Slide the dish into the warm oven, letting the ingredients mingle and dance for about an hour. Watch for the cheese to turn golden and bubbly, signaling a meal that’s ready to dazzle taste buds.

  • Resting Moment

Allow the dish a brief moment to settle and collect its flavors before bringing this mouthwatering creation to the table.

Tips to Elevate Your Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Tips to Elevate Your Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken
  • Swap out regular Parmesan for aged Pecorino Romano to add a sharper, saltier kick to your sauce.
  • Replace chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a more tender, juicy result that stays incredibly moist during baking.
  • Sprinkle fresh chopped basil, thyme, or chives right before serving to brighten the dish and add a fresh herbal note.
  • Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne into the sour cream sauce for those who love a subtle warming heat that doesn't overpower the creamy richness.

Serving Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Just Right

Serving Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Just Right
  • Dinner Party Delight: Serve this creamy chicken alongside crisp roasted asparagus or green beans to add a pop of color and fresh vegetable nutrition to your plate.
  • Comfort Meal Companion: Pair the cheesy chicken with fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery rice to soak up the rich, creamy sauce and create a satisfying complete meal.
  • Salad Sidekick: Create a light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette to balance the dish's richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
  • Bread Basket Bonus: Warm garlic bread or crusty French bread makes an excellent accompaniment for mopping up the extra delicious sauce, ensuring not a drop goes to waste.

Storing and Reheating Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

  • Fridge Fresh Strategy: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the creamy sauce intact and flavors locked in.
  • Quick Reheat Technique: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk to maintain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Freezer Friendly Option: Wrap individual servings tightly in freezer-safe wrap or containers, lasting up to 2 months for convenient future meals.
  • Prep-Ahead Magic: Assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours before baking, covering and refrigerating to save time on busy weeknight dinners.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Sour Cream Chicken Bake Recipe

Creamy Sour Cream Chicken Bake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 5 1x

Description

Hearty cheesy sour cream chicken bake delivers comfort straight from midwestern kitchens. Creamy layers of tender chicken and melted cheese promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 centimeters) baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent adherence.
  2. Chicken Placement: Lay chicken breasts in a single, uniform layer within the prepared dish, ensuring even spacing for consistent heat distribution.
  3. Sauce Creation: Whisk sour cream, Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper into a silky, homogeneous sauce that promises rich, tangy flavors.
  4. Cheese Layering: Crown each chicken breast with a generous slice of mozzarella, completely blanketing the protein to create a molten, creamy topping.
  5. Sauce Application: Elegantly drench the cheese-topped chicken with the prepared sauce, ensuring comprehensive coverage and maximum flavor infusion.
  6. Baking Process: Slide the dish into the preheated oven and roast for 55-65 minutes, tracking the chicken’s internal temperature until it reaches the safe 165°F (74°C) mark.
  7. Resting and Serving: After removing from the oven, let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then plate and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a vibrant finish.

Notes

  • Cheese Selection Matters: Use full-fat, high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for the richest, most luxurious flavor and best melting texture.
  • Temperature Precision: Always check chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety and prevent overcooking.
  • Moisture Magic: Letting chicken rest after baking allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite remains incredibly tender and succulent.
  • Sauce Consistency Tip: Whisk cornstarch thoroughly to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking, Frying, Sautéing, Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 5
  • Calories: 387
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 100 mg
Michael Reynolds

Michael Reynolds

Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Modern American and European Cuisines​, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and global cuisines.​

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

  • Program: Diploma in Pastry Arts
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking and pastry, emphasizing artisanal bread, confections, and plated desserts.​

Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.

Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.

At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star