Tender Flavorful Chicken Breast

This juicy Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-worthy meal with minimal effort. The creamy Parmesan coating creates the most tender, flavorful chicken you'll ever taste while keeping the meat incredibly moist.

I first made this recipe when I was desperately trying to break out of our chicken dinner rut. My family was so impressed that it immediately became our go to special dinner that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Sour cream creates the creamy base that locks moisture into the chicken
• Garlic powder adds savory depth without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic
• Seasoned salt provides balanced flavor in one convenient ingredient
• Fresh ground black pepper brings essential warmth and subtle spice
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese forms a golden crust and adds rich umami flavor
• Boneless chicken breasts trimmed of excess fat for the perfect lean protein

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F before you begin any other steps. This ensures your oven reaches the proper temperature by the time your chicken is ready to bake.

Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while allowing the chicken to brown properly.

Create the Creamy Coating

In a medium bowl thoroughly combine the sour cream garlic powder seasoned salt pepper and 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese until completely smooth. This mixture will become your flavor packed coating that tenderizes the chicken.

Assemble the Dish

Arrange chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish with small gaps between pieces. Spread the sour cream mixture generously over each chicken breast making sure to cover completely. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden crust.

Bake to Perfection

Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The exact time depends on the thickness of your chicken breasts so using a meat thermometer ensures perfect results.

Create the Golden Crust

Switch your oven to broil and place the dish under the broiler for just 2 to 3 minutes watching carefully until the top turns golden brown and slightly crispy.

The Parmesan cheese is truly the star ingredient here. I always recommend grating it fresh rather than using the pre grated variety. The flavor difference is remarkable and the fresh cheese melts much more beautifully into that irresistible golden crust that my family fights over every time.

Storage and Reheating

This chicken maintains its moisture surprisingly well even when stored and reheated. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For best results reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving which can make the coating rubbery. If you must use a microwave cover the chicken and heat at 70% power to preserve moisture.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare this dish up to 24 hours in advance for easy entertaining. Simply assemble everything in the baking dish cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to cook remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off then add 5 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken pairs beautifully with nearly any side dish. For a complete meal serve alongside roasted asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce from the chicken makes a wonderful complement to the potatoes. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes! Greek yogurt works as an excellent substitute for sour cream in this dish. It provides a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture while reducing the fat content. Just use the same amount (1 cup) as called for in the original recipe.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, cut into the thickest part of a breast - the meat should be white throughout with no pink, and the juices should run clear.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and topping mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble in your baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken dish?

This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a fresh green salad. The creamy, savory flavor of the chicken complements simple side dishes that can soak up some of the delicious sauce.

→ Can I freeze leftovers of this chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

→ How can I make this dish lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use light sour cream or fat-free Greek yogurt, reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese to 1 cup total, and be sure to trim all visible fat from the chicken breasts. You could also use chicken breast tenderloins which are naturally leaner.