Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken
Introduction
If you’re in the mood for a delicious and creamy chicken recipe, the smothered cheesy sour cream chicken is just the dish you’re looking for! This comforting recipe is loaded with rich flavors, gooey cheese, and a tangy sour cream sauce that will leave your taste buds delighted. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to impress your guests, this dish is easy to prepare and absolutely satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Chicken Breasts:
4 boneless, skinless pieces
Sour Cream:
1 cup, for that creamy tang
Cheddar Cheese:
1 cup of shredded cheese, perfect for gooey goodness
Chicken Broth:
1/4 cup to enhance the flavor
Garlic Powder:
1 teaspoon, bringing in that extra kick
Onion Powder:
1 teaspoon for subtle flavor
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon for seasoning
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon for cooking
Prep Time
The preparation for this recipe is quick and simple. It takes about 15 minutes to get everything ready. This includes seasoning the chicken, prepping the sauce, and getting all your ingredients measured out to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the smothered cheesy sour cream chicken is approximately 25 to 30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Combine that with the prep time, and you’ll have this delicious meal ready in a total of about 40 to 45 minutes. This recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a small dinner gathering.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat The Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures an evenly cooked dish.
Step 2: Prepare The Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with nonstick cooking spray or oil. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the dish.
Step 3: Prepare The Chicken
Trim any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Season The Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for added flavor. Make sure to coat both sides of the chicken evenly.
Step 5: Make The Sour Cream Mixture
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced green chilies. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined into a creamy mixture.
Step 6: Spread The Mixture Over The Chicken
Using a spoon or spatula, spread the sour cream and cheese mixture over the chicken breasts. Coat them evenly to cover the top completely.
Step 7: Bake The Chicken
Place the prepared baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Broil For A Cheesy Finish
Switch the oven to the broil setting and broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese on top becomes bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 9: Remove From Oven
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Step 10: Serve And Enjoy
Garnish the smothered cheesy sour cream chicken with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Chicken Breasts
Ensure your chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. You may pound them slightly if needed.
Note 2: Adjusting Spices
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne for some spice if desired.
Note 3: Shredded Cheese Options
You can use a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend works well.
Note 4: Adding Vegetables
For additional flavor and texture, consider adding sliced mushrooms, thinly sliced onions, or chopped bell peppers around the chicken in the baking dish.
Note 5: Leftover Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Note 6: Serving Ideas
Pair this dish with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Note 7: Dairy-Free Option
Use a dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternative for a lactose-intolerant-friendly version.
Note 8: Internal Temperature
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Cook Techniques
Preparation of the Chicken
Start by ensuring that your chicken breasts are thoroughly cleaned and nicely trimmed. This step guarantees that your dish will have a clean and fresh taste, with no unwanted bits.
Pan-Searing the Chicken
Sear the chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat until they develop a golden-brown crust. Be careful not to overcook at this stage; you’re looking for a slight browning to lock in the juices.
Making the Sour Cream Sauce
Combine sour cream with flavorful seasonings and a blend of cheeses to create a rich, creamy sauce that elevates the chicken. Whisk gently to ensure the sauce is smooth and well-blended before using.
Baking to Perfection
Transfer the seared chicken, now smothered in the sour cream and cheese mixture, to the oven. Bake until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature and the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden-topped finish.
Garnishing for Presentation
Once the chicken is baked, allow it to rest briefly. Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions on top for a visually appealing and flavorful garnish.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work as an excellent substitute for chicken breasts. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for better results.
What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are the recommended cheeses for this recipe, but you can experiment with others such as Monterey Jack or Gouda.
How can I make the dish healthier?
Substitute full-fat sour cream with a low-fat or Greek yogurt alternative. You may also consider using reduced-fat cheese to minimize the calorie content.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken with the sauce beforehand and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Serve with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad for a balanced and delicious meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving, although the texture of the sauce might change slightly.
Conclusion
Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for any family meal. Its creamy and cheesy texture paired with tender chicken provides a satisfying experience for your taste buds. This recipe is a great choice for anyone looking to create a hearty and delicious dinner that everyone will love. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and you’re sure to have a meal that will bring everyone to the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Pair this creamy chicken with cheesy garlic mashed potatoes for a rich and comforting combo.
Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Butter
Add a healthy touch with steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon butter for a burst of freshness.
Classic Caesar Salad
A crisp and tangy Caesar salad brings balance to the creamy chicken flavors.
Herb-Infused Rice Pilaf
Serve the chicken over aromatic herb-infused rice pilaf for a complete and textured meal.
Garlic Butter Green Beans
Garlic butter green beans make a simple and delicious side dish that complements the cheesy richness of the chicken.
