Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce featuring Asiago cheese. The chicken bakes to juicy perfection while the creamy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce featuring Asiago cheese. The chicken bakes to juicy perfection while the creamy Asiago sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a slightly nutty, tangy kick. It’s an easy-to-make meal that feels special enough to serve any night of the week.
I love making this dish when I want something satisfying but not too complicated. The creamy sauce is smooth and cheesy without being overwhelming, and the Asiago cheese gives it a nice twist that sets it apart from regular baked chicken recipes. I often sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking to get that golden, bubbly crust that everyone tends to fight over at the table.
Serving this chicken with simple sides like steamed veggies or a fresh salad is my go-to way to keep the meal balanced and colorful. It’s also great with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. Whenever I make this, it always feels like a cozy, warm meal that everyone enjoys, and leftovers reheat really well for the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you like, chicken thighs also make a juicy, flavorful alternative.
Asiago cheese: Asiago gives this dish its unique, nutty flavor. If you can’t find Asiago, try Parmesan or Pecorino Romano as good substitutes with a similar sharpness.
Heavy cream: This ingredient creates the rich and creamy sauce. For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of flour can work, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Garlic and herbs: Fresh garlic really brings the sauce to life, while the thyme and Italian seasoning add great depth. Feel free to swap thyme for rosemary or oregano depending on your taste.
How Can I Get the Chicken Juicy and the Sauce Creamy?
The key to juicy chicken and a creamy sauce is in the sear and simmer steps.
- Sear the chicken: Browning the chicken breasts in olive oil creates a nice crust that locks in moisture. Don’t skip this step and avoid crowding the pan.
- Simmer the sauce: After sautéing garlic, slowly combine cream, broth, herbs, and Asiago. Let it gently simmer until it thickens slightly—this builds flavor and gives a silky texture.
- Bake covered: Pour the sauce over seared chicken in the baking dish. Baking them together lets the chicken absorb the creamy sauce while finishing cooking.
- Watch the cheese: Adding Asiago cheese on top before baking creates a golden, melty crust. Keep an eye to avoid burning.
These simple steps ensure a tender chicken dish with a rich, cheesy sauce that’s just right every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken evenly and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Baking dish (9×13 inches) – roomy enough to bake the chicken and sauce without spilling.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your cream, broth, and seasonings just right.
- Grater – handy for freshly grating Asiago cheese for the best flavor and melt.
- Tongs or spatula – for flipping the chicken safely while searing.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs if you prefer juicier, more flavorful meat.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies and texture.
- Use Gouda or Fontina cheese instead of Asiago for a milder, creamier taste.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika into the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.
Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon butter
Time Needed
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and sear the chicken, plus 25-30 minutes baking time. So, plan for roughly 45 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts well with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for plenty of flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Take them off the heat and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Asiago Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then sprinkle in dried thyme and half of the Asiago cheese. Stir it all together and let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens a little.
4. Assemble and Bake
Pour the creamy sauce into a baking dish. Place the seared chicken breasts on top and spoon some sauce over them. Sprinkle the remaining Asiago cheese on the chicken for a delicious cheesy crust. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and golden.
5. Serve
Take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve the chicken hot with your favorite sides like steamed veggies, rice, or pasta to enjoy all that creamy Asiago goodness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the dish.
Can I Substitute Asiago Cheese With Another Cheese?
Absolutely! Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or even a mild mozzarella can be used if Asiago isn’t available. Keep in mind that Asiago offers a nutty, tangy flavor, so the taste will vary slightly with substitutions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep the sauce creamy and smooth.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then assemble and bake when ready. Store the prepared components separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours for best results.