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Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken

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This Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken is a creamy, tender, and flavorful baked chicken dish that lives up to its name. With a rich topping made from sour cream, mayonnaise, Parmesan, and spices, each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

🔹 For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds)

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

🔹 For the Creamy Topping

1 cup sour cream

½ cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

🔹 Optional Add-ons

½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Red pepper flakes, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

If chicken breasts are thick, slice horizontally or pound to even 1-inch thickness. Pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Optional Sear

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden (optional, but enhances flavor). Transfer to the prepared baking dish.

Step 4: Make Creamy Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:

  • 1 cup sour cream

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Assemble

Spread the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish. If using extra cheese, sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar on top.

Step 6: Bake

Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For a golden, bubbly crust, broil during the last 2–3 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley, chives, or red pepper flakes. Serve hot!

Notes

  • Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melt and flavor. Avoid pre-shredded.

  • Searing Optional: Adds flavor and texture but can be skipped for simplicity.

  • Make Ahead: Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and baked when ready.

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

  • Reheating: Warm gently in the oven at 325°F or microwave in 30-second bursts at medium power.

  • Variations: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter twist. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach under the sauce for a veggie boost.

  • Meat Swap: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and stay extra moist.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/melt-in-your-mouth-chicken/