Introduction

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a comforting, creamy dish loaded with cheesy goodness and tender chicken breasts. It’s an easy recipe that brings together rich flavors and a melty, golden topping perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

A white baking dish holds three large chicken breasts covered completely in a thick, creamy white sauce that is broiled to a golden brown on top, creating a bubbly and slightly crispy texture. The sauce pools gently around the chicken, with a few fresh chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly over the top, adding bright color contrast. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft focus on a green leafy background, giving a fresh and warm feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 slices mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, oregano, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast for a melty layer during baking.
Step 5: Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over each chicken breast, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Allow the dish to stand for a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like parsley before baking.
Use Greek yogurt mixed with sour cream for a slightly tangier, protein-packed creamy sauce.
Try swapping mozzarella for provolone or Monterey Jack for a different melty cheese texture.
Serve with steamed vegetables or over rice to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain creaminess without drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

The image shows three large, golden-brown chicken breasts layered in a white baking dish, covered with creamy white sauce with visible black pepper specks, and topped with melted cheese that is golden and bubbly. Fresh green chopped herbs are scattered over the top, adding a pop of color. The sauce pools slightly around the edges of the chicken, creating a rich, smooth texture. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft focus on the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and may even stay juicier. Adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer or shorter depending on thickness.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese options. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ somewhat from the traditional version.

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 147 reviews

This Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken recipe offers a creamy and cheesy twist on classic baked chicken breasts. Coated with a rich sour cream and Parmesan mixture and topped with melty mozzarella, this dish bakes to golden perfection, making it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Sauce and Toppings

1 cup sour cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 slices mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Arrange Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Add Mozzarella Topping: Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast to create a melty, cheesy layer during baking.
Spread Sauce: Evenly spread the sour cream mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated, then sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the sauce.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese turns golden and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Allow the baked chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven to let the flavors meld before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy delight!

Notes

Ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking; you can pound them if necessary.
Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F (74°C).
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.
For a lower-fat version, use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheeses.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: cheesy chicken, sour cream chicken, baked chicken recipe, creamy chicken, Parmesan chicken, easy dinner, family meal