Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce made from Asiago cheese. The chicken stays juicy as…
Tip: save now, cook later.Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy sauce made from Asiago cheese. The chicken stays juicy as it bakes, and the creamy Asiago topping melts into a golden, bubbly perfection. This meal is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to serve when you have guests.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels fancy but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen. The creamy Asiago sauce comes together quickly, and baking the chicken means you can just pop it in the oven and relax while it cooks. I always tip a little fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh hint of flavor, which really brightens up the dish.
One of my favorite ways to serve this chicken is alongside roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. The creaminess of the Asiago sauce pairs perfectly with crispy veggies or a fresh, crisp lettuce mix. It’s one of those meals that feels cozy and satisfying, and I always get happy comments around the table when I bring it out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless breasts are tender and cook quickly. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work well too but may need slightly longer baking time.
Asiago Cheese: Asiago gives a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce. If you can’t find it, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano make great substitutes that still deliver a sharp, cheesy taste.
Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken.
Herbs & Seasonings: Italian seasoning is a great all-around mix, but fresh herbs like oregano or parsley add brightness. Use what’s fresh or what you like best.
How Do You Get Chicken Juicy and Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
To keep chicken juicy, sear it first on the stove just until golden, then bake it gently in the sauce. This locks in moisture.
- Heat oil over medium-high before adding chicken to get a golden crust fast.
- Don’t overcook—bake until just done (use a thermometer for 165°F/74°C inside).
- Whisk the cream and cheeses well to avoid clumps before pouring over chicken.
- Stir the sauce occasionally if you’re using a skillet, but don’t disturb the chicken during baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or baking dish – perfect for searing the chicken and baking it all in one pan.
- Tongs – helpful for flipping chicken breasts safely while searing.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk together the creamy Asiago sauce smoothly.
- Whisk or fork – makes blending the cream and cheeses lump-free easy.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – great to check the chicken’s internal temperature for perfect doneness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for boneless pork chops for a slightly different but equally tasty dish.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Mix in fresh spinach or kale before baking to sneak in some greens and extra texture.
- Top with crispy bacon bits after baking to add smoky crunch that contrasts the creaminess.
Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Asiago cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley or fresh oregano, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare, including seasoning and searing the chicken. Then, bake it in the oven for around 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. Overall, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides generously with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they develop a nice golden-brown color but are not fully cooked through. Remove the skillet from heat.
3. Prepare and Add the Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, heavy cream, Asiago cheese, Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and chopped fresh herbs. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet.
4. Bake until Done:
Place the skillet or baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese sauce is bubbling and slightly golden.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with extra fresh parsley or oregano for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted veggies or a fresh green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the fridge overnight before cooking. Pat them dry to remove any excess moisture for better searing.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then refrigerate everything separately for up to 24 hours. When ready, assemble and bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With Asiago Chicken?
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.