Description
This Creamy Baked Chicken and Asparagus recipe features tender chicken breasts baked in a rich garlic cream sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. The asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast, making this dish a delicious and easy weeknight meal with comforting flavors and a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for enhanced flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic-butter mixture, then stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Simmer this mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until it slightly thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Arrange Asparagus and Chicken: Place the trimmed asparagus in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, then lay the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the asparagus.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the prepared garlic cream sauce evenly over the chicken and asparagus. Then, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of everything.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it is fully cooked and juicy.
- Broil for Cheese Finish (Optional): If desired, switch the oven to broil and broil the dish for 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a golden and bubbly cheese topping. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if using, and serve hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- To pound chicken breasts evenly, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently use a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Use fresh asparagus for best texture; trim the woody ends before cooking.
- Cheese can be adjusted based on preference – swapping mozzarella for fontina or gouda works well.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Broiling the cheese is optional but adds a nice golden crust and extra flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side of rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
