Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknights or when you want a fuss-free dinner. The star here is tender chicken breasts baked…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken is a simple and delicious dish that’s perfect for weeknights or when you want a fuss-free dinner. The star here is tender chicken breasts baked in a creamy sauce loaded with Asiago cheese, which gives it a nice, mild tang and a little bite. The golden top adds a perfect touch of crispiness that makes every bite satisfying.
I love making this recipe because it feels special without taking lots of time or fancy ingredients. One tip I have is to make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy Asiago sauce before baking—it helps keep it juicy and flavorful. You don’t need to babysit it in the oven either, which makes it so easy to multitask or prep a quick side while it bakes.
Serving this with some simple roasted veggies or a side of buttery mashed potatoes makes it a total crowd-pleaser. I often find myself sneaking extra sauce on my plate because it’s just so comforting and tasty. It’s definitely one of those meals that feels like a little bit of home, wrapped up in cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Asiago Cheese: Asiago gives a mild tangy flavor and melts beautifully. If you can’t find it, Parmesan or Pecorino Romano work well as substitutes. They add a similar cheesy sharpness.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for even cooking and tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be used too—they stay juicier.
Heavy Cream & Mayonnaise: These make the sauce super creamy. You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt (add at the end to avoid curdling). For mayo, sour cream works as well.
Chicken Broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce. Vegetable broth is a good alternative to keep it lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning bring balanced herbs and spice—fresh garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used if you prefer fresh flavors.
How Do You Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy and the Sauce Rich?
The key to juicy chicken and rich sauce is a combination of searing and baking gently in the creamy Asiago mixture.
- Sear the chicken first: Browning it for just a few minutes seals in juices and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcook in the oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) just until cooked through, about 25-30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer if you have one—165°F (74°C) is perfect.
- Coat the chicken well: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken so it bakes in flavor and moisture, helping prevent dryness.
- Optional broil step: A quick broil at the end browns the top, giving a tasty crunchy edge without drying out the chicken.
Following these tips means you get tender chicken wrapped in a smooth, cheesy sauce every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – big enough to hold the chicken and sauce without spilling, like a 9×13-inch pan.
- Large skillet – perfect for searing the chicken to lock in flavor before baking.
- Mixing bowl – to whisk together the creamy Asiago sauce easily.
- Whisk or fork – helps you blend the sauce ingredients until smooth.
- Meat thermometer (optional) – handy to check the chicken’s done without cutting into it.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
- Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the sauce for extra veggies and earthiness.
- Use mozzarella or fontina cheese instead of Asiago for a milder, creamier taste.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika if you like a bit of smoky heat.
How to Make Easy Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Asiago cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So in under 45 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked chicken dinner ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to flavor the chicken well.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice golden brown color. This step helps lock in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Asiago Sauce & Bake:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, mayonnaise, Asiago cheese, and Parmesan cheese until the mixture is smooth. Place the seared chicken breasts into a baking dish, then pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, the sauce is bubbling, and the top is lightly golden.
4. (Optional) Broil for a Golden Crust:
If you like a crispy golden top, turn the broiler on and broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes—keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This creamy, cheesy chicken goes beautifully with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and sauce, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Increase baking time slightly if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess.
What Sides Pair Well with Asiago Chicken?
This dish is perfect with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the rich, creamy sauce.