Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella | Easy Oven-Baked Comfort Food

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella is a rich, oven-baked dish made with tender chicken, fresh garlic, and a homemade cream sauce finished with a golden mozzarella topping. It’s an ideal recipe when you need comfort food without complicated steps.

Everything comes together in one pan, making it a smart choice for weeknights or casual gatherings. The flavors are deep and satisfying, and the process is easy enough for beginners.

From ingredients to serving ideas, this guide covers it all. You’ll also find helpful variations, reheating tips, and expert techniques to get the best result every time you bake this creamy garlic chicken recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Chicken Dinner

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella brings together a simple list of ingredients in a way that delivers big flavor and serious comfort. The creamy garlic sauce coats the chicken without overpowering it, while the melted mozzarella on top makes each bite satisfying and complete.

This recipe is built for both ease and flavor, and it works for busy nights as well as when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

• One pan makes for easy prep and fast cleanup
• Mozzarella gives the perfect golden cheese topping
• Garlic and herbs create a balanced, savory sauce
• Customizable with veggies or different cheeses
• Works well with both chicken breasts and thighs

If you enjoy straightforward baked chicken recipes, this one delivers the same dependable comfort as the One Pan Chicken and Rice Bake or the flavorful Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a key role in the flavor and texture of this creamy garlic chicken recipe. Freshness makes a difference, especially in the garlic and dairy components.

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

This dish is also compatible with meal prep, and the ingredients store well. The mozzarella cheese provides that gooey, slightly crispy top, while the broth and cream create a rich base that simmers gently in the oven.

If you’re looking for a similarly satisfying creamy meal, the Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup is another excellent recipe for cozy evenings.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake

The process to make this dish is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment. A simple oven-safe skillet or baking dish is all you need to create a delicious, creamy garlic chicken dinner.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the chicken. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
3. Sear the chicken. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly browned. Transfer chicken to a baking dish.
4. Make the sauce. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and remaining Italian seasoning. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Assemble the dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly across the top.
6. Bake. Place in oven uncovered and bake for 25–30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest and serve. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

If you’ve tried the Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Recipe, you’ll find the layering and sauce-building process here familiar and just as satisfying.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe

This creamy garlic chicken bake is filling enough to be the star of any dinner plate, but the right sides can balance its richness and turn the meal into something special. Here are a variety of serving suggestions, broken down into categories:

Classic Carbs

• Serve over white rice to soak up the sauce
• Pair with buttered egg noodles or rotini
• Creamy mashed potatoes make a smooth, hearty base

Low-Carb or Keto Options

• Roasted cauliflower florets
• Garlic sautéed green beans
• Steamed broccoli with a squeeze of lemon

Comfort Sides

• Texas toast or garlic bread to scoop up leftover sauce
• Buttery cornbread
• Oven-roasted carrots or parsnips for a touch of sweetness

Lighter Additions

• A mixed greens salad with vinaigrette
• Cucumber and tomato salad
• Simple arugula tossed with olive oil and lemon

Baked or Roasted Pairings

• Hasselback potatoes
• Herbed quinoa
• Zucchini or squash roasted with thyme

Ideas for Leftover Sauce

• Spoon it over a baked potato the next day
• Use as a dip for toasted baguette slices
• Serve on top of scrambled eggs for a weekend brunch

The mozzarella topping gives this dish a satisfying finish that complements starches and fresh greens alike. This balance makes it ideal for any time of year and any size meal, from weeknight dinner to holiday buffet.

For a flexible protein option that also fits into your rotation, consider Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs with similar flavor flexibility.

Variations and Customization for Easy Creamy Garlic Chicken

Adapting creamy garlic chicken recipes allows you to make the most of what you have in your fridge. Here are popular ways to switch it up:

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They offer more flavor and stay moist. Use skinless, boneless thighs and adjust the bake time by about 5 minutes longer.
• Add spinach. Stir 1½ cups of fresh spinach into the sauce before pouring it over the chicken. It adds nutrients and color.
• Include mushrooms. Sauté 1 cup of sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy depth.
• Switch the cheese. Try a mix of mozzarella and parmesan, or add provolone for a sharper bite.
• Add heat. Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the cream sauce or top with sliced jalapeños.
• Include tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes bring a pop of sweetness and acidity.
• Make it dairy-light. Use half-and-half instead of cream, though the sauce may be thinner. Thicken with a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch if needed.
• Fresh herbs finish. Top with chopped basil, thyme, or rosemary after baking for extra aroma and flavor.
• Add peas or corn. These cook quickly and can be stirred into the sauce before baking.
• Make it gluten-free. Double-check that your broth and seasonings contain no wheat derivatives.

Recipes like the Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot also show how minor ingredient changes can bring out different personalities in similar base recipes.

Storage and Reheating for Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake

Proper storage and reheating protect both the texture and flavor of your creamy garlic chicken recipe.

Storage:

• Cool the chicken completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing (optional):

• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating:

In the Oven:

• Preheat oven to 325°F.
• Place chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil.
• Heat for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through.

In the Microwave:

• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a spoonful of broth or cream to rehydrate.
• Cover loosely and microwave for 1–2 minutes on medium heat.

Avoid overheating to prevent the chicken from drying out and the sauce from separating.

These storage tips work well for other comfort meals like Chicken Noodle Soup Crock Pot and ensure flavor stays consistent after the first bake.

Pro Tips for Best Creamy Garlic Chicken Results

Apply these techniques for better flavor, texture, and presentation:

• Use room temperature chicken. Cold chicken from the fridge sears unevenly.
• Sear well. Browning adds flavor through caramelization and keeps chicken moist.
• Don’t rush the sauce. Let it simmer gently so the flavors meld and the cream thickens.
• Grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and melts less smoothly.
• Cover during part of baking. Tent foil loosely if the cheese browns too fast.
• Let rest before serving. This helps the sauce settle and the cheese finish melting.
• Don’t skip seasoning. Garlic, salt, and pepper are simple but essential.
• Use a thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F internally to ensure it’s fully cooked.
• Garnish with care. A little parsley or fresh herbs brightens a creamy dish visually and in taste.

These steps can help your dish turn out consistently delicious and are great to apply to any baked chicken recipe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake

Even simple recipes benefit from attention to detail. Avoiding these common mistakes will keep your creamy garlic chicken bake moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

• Overcooking the chicken. Dry chicken comes from overbaking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping the sear. Searing locks in juices and builds flavor.
• Using low-fat dairy. Reduced-fat creams can separate during baking and affect texture.
• Adding cheese too early. Wait until the last 10 minutes of baking to avoid burning or over-browning.
• Not adjusting seasoning. Taste the sauce before baking to ensure it has enough salt and garlic.
• Forgetting to stir the sauce. Stirring helps blend flavors and prevents sticking.
• Crowding the pan. Give the chicken space to cook evenly.
• Neglecting rest time. Five minutes of resting improves texture and helps everything settle.
• Using pre-minced garlic. Fresh garlic gives better aroma and taste.

By keeping these in mind, you’ll get better results every time you bake this creamy garlic chicken recipe.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Recipe Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella is simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and easy to serve with many side options. It’s a reliable recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table with every bite. Save it for your weekly dinner rotation or serve it to guests who appreciate classic, hearty food.

Pin this recipe now and don’t forget to share it with friends who love creamy chicken dinners as much as you do.

FAQs About Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella

What is Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella made of?

This dish is made with chicken breasts, fresh garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, mozzarella cheese, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. The ingredients are baked together until the chicken is tender and the cheese is melted and golden.

Can I use chicken thighs in Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake?

Yes, chicken thighs work very well in this recipe. They tend to stay juicier than breasts and have a rich flavor. Use boneless, skinless thighs and adjust the bake time slightly to ensure they cook through.

Is Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe can be keto-friendly when served without starchy sides like rice or pasta. Pair it with low-carb options such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or leafy greens to keep the carbs low.

How do you keep Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, sear it before baking, use enough sauce, and avoid overbaking. Use a thermometer to check for doneness and allow the dish to rest before serving to let juices redistribute.

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bake with Mozzarella | Easy Oven-Baked Comfort Food

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner