Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. This recipe offers a perfect blend of creamy and cheesy flavors that makes chicken both tender and flavorful. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare and requires just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great option for weeknight dinners, as you can prepare it quickly without sacrificing taste or quality.

There’s something irresistible about the combination of sour cream and cheese, especially when it’s smothered over juicy chicken. The richness of the sour cream complements the chicken perfectly, while the cheese adds a delicious, gooey texture that everyone will love.

How to Make Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup sour cream (for creamy flavor)
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese (for melty texture)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (for a hint of herb flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (for added flavor)
• To taste salt and black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and becomes tender.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish
   Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can use cooking spray or a little bit of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. This step also makes cleanup easier afterward.

3. Arrange the Chicken Breasts
   Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer. This is important because it allows the chicken to cook evenly and thoroughly.

4. Make the Sour Cream Mixture
   In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The sour cream adds a creamy texture, while the cornstarch helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.

5. Add the Mozzarella Cheese
   Now it’s time to add the mozzarella! Place one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken breast. This will create a wonderful melty layer that enhances the flavor.

6. Spread the Sour Cream Mixture
   Next, take the sour cream mixture and spread it evenly over each chicken breast. Ensure each piece is well-coated to maximize flavor.

7. Sprinkle Remaining Parmesan Cheese
   Finally, sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese on top of the sauce-covered chicken. This will create a nice, cheesy crust as it bakes.

8. Bake
   Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes. You can check for doneness by ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cheese should be golden and bubbly, indicating that it’s cooked to perfection.

9. Rest and Serve
   Once done, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to stand for a few minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld together, creating a more delicious meal. Then serve the creamy, cheesy chicken alongside your favorite sides!

How to Serve Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include:

• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots offer a healthy and colorful addition to the meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce from the chicken also goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes.
• Rice: Consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Serve the chicken warm, topped with the creamy sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish if desired. Enjoy with family or friends for a delightful meal!

How to Store Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

If you have leftovers (which is often the case because it’s so rich and filling), follow these simple storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool down to room temperature. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. This can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Tips to Make Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: For juicier chicken, consider using bone-in chicken breasts. They might take a little longer to cook, but the flavor is better!

• Sour Cream: If you want a lighter option, you can use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt. The taste and texture will still be creamy, but slightly healthier.

• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix up the types of cheese you use. Cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack can add unique flavors to the dish.

• Spice it Up: If you enjoy spicy food, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sour cream mixture for an extra kick.

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or basil can enhance the flavor profile of your dish.

Variations

• Vegetable Add-ins: You can add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sour cream mixture for extra nutrition.

• Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for a rich, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

• Crispy Topping: For a crunchy texture, consider topping the dish with crushed crackers or fried onions just before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. Make sure they reach the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use dairy-free cheese options.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

4. Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the chicken is tender.

5. What side dishes go well with this chicken?
As mentioned earlier, this dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is a versatile and forgiving recipe that adapts to your tastes and preferences. Enjoy the crafting of this delightful meal that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken

Print Recipe

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy sour cream and cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

• Author: lila-monroe
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• To taste salt and black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer.
4. Combine sour cream, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, cornstarch, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
5. Add mozzarella on top of each chicken breast.
6. Spread the sour cream mixture over the chicken breasts.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake for about 60 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to rest before serving.

Notes

Consider using low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier option. You can also add sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: chicken, sour cream, comfort food, cheesy dish, easy recipe