Description
This Creamy Baked Chicken and Asparagus recipe features tender chicken breasts baked with fresh asparagus and smothered in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce, topped with bubbly mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a comforting and elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 large chicken breasts
Vegetables
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound them to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with garlic butter, then stir in the grated parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Arrange Asparagus and Chicken: Place the trimmed asparagus in a single layer in the greased baking dish. Lay the seasoned chicken breasts evenly on top of the asparagus.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the warm garlic parmesan cream sauce over the chicken and asparagus, making sure everything is well coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the entire dish.
- Bake: Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Broil for Golden Cheese (Optional): For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil the dish for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for a creamy, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Trim woody ends off asparagus to avoid toughness.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and melting quality.
- Broil cheese topping briefly to add a crispy, golden finish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
