Delicious Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe to Savor

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture? The Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe delivers just that! Imagine succulent chicken breasts, perfectly baked to tender perfection, enveloped in a luscious sauce made from Asiago cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs. This dish doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it tantalizes your taste buds and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you want to impress family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce complements the savory chicken beautifully, creating a harmony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a culinary masterpiece that showcases the delightful essence of Asiago cheese. Get ready to embark on this flavor journey!

Key Ingredients For Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the star of the dish, providing a juicy protein base that soaks up the creamy sauce.
• Asiago Cheese: Choose freshly grated Asiago for maximum creaminess and flavor; it melts beautifully in the oven.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds richness to the sauce, making it wonderfully smooth and indulgent.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic brings aromatic depth; ensure you mince them finely for optimal flavor distribution.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): These herbs brighten the dish; use fresh for the best aroma and taste.

For the Sauce:

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for added moisture without overwhelming saltiness in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish by spraying it lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Second Step: Prepare The Chicken

Season the boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Third Step: Make The Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine heavy cream, chicken broth, minced garlic cloves, and half of the grated Asiago cheese. Mix until well blended.

Fourth Step: Pour Sauce Over Chicken

Pour the creamy mixture over the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish. Sprinkle any remaining Asiago cheese on top for added flavor.

Fifth Step: Bake The Dish

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestion: Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Garnish with extra fresh herbs if desired.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Ensure all chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking throughout.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like Parmesan or mozzarella if you want a unique twist on flavor.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days; reheat gently before serving.

Cooking Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for about 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine. Add grated Asiago cheese and mix until it melts into a creamy sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each piece.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For an extra touch, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to obtain a bubbly, golden top.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with various side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Consider serving it with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the chicken nicely.
• Steamed Broccoli: This adds a pop of color and boosts nutritional value.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up all that delicious sauce.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe provides a balanced meal option. It contains approximately 400 calories per serving, primarily derived from protein and healthy fats. The dish is rich in calcium due to the Asiago cheese while offering essential vitamins from added vegetables if you choose to serve them alongside.

Storage Tips

To properly store leftovers of this Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in your refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. When reheating, ensure it’s heated through completely, either in an oven or microwave.

FAQs

What can I substitute for Asiago cheese in this recipe?

If you cannot find Asiago cheese, you can use alternatives like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano. Both options provide a similar nutty flavor profile that enhances the dish’s overall taste without losing its creamy essence. Grated mozzarella can also work if you prefer a milder flavor but won’t offer as strong a taste as Asiago.

Can I make this recipe using boneless skinless thighs?

Absolutely! While this Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe typically uses chicken breasts, boneless skinless thighs work wonderfully too. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just adjust your cooking time slightly since thighs may require a few extra minutes in the oven compared to breasts.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To create a healthier version of this Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe, consider using low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream. You can also reduce the amount of cheese used while still maintaining flavor integrity by adding herbs or spices such as rosemary or thyme for added depth without extra calories.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken Recipe ahead of time by marinating the chicken in advance and preparing the sauce separately. Assemble everything into your baking dish but do not bake until you’re ready to serve; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to two days before cooking.