Name: Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup sour cream; 1 pinch garlic powder and paprika (for sauce mix); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something so indulgent and comforting. The sour cream sauce keeps the chicken incredibly moist while infusing every bite with tangy, cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
I season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
I arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, I mix the sour cream with a little extra paprika and a pinch of garlic powder for added flavor.
I spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
I sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top of the chicken.
I bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
I let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 480 kcal

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped green onions or cooked crumbled bacon under the cheese for extra flavor. I’ve also stirred a little Dijon mustard into the sour cream for a tangy twist. For a spicier kick, I sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use pepper jack cheese.

storage/reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals. I cover the chicken to keep it from drying out and sometimes add a spoonful of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, I’ve used boneless, skinless thighs and they turn out just as juicy and flavorful—just adjust the cook time if needed.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I prep the chicken and sauce earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate. Then I bake it when ready to serve.

What sides go best with this dish?

I love serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the extra sauce. A simple green salad or steamed veggies work well too.

Can I make it lower fat?

Yes, I use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese when I want a lighter version. It still turns out creamy and delicious.

Will this work with Greek yogurt?

It can! I’ve subbed in plain Greek yogurt for sour cream before—it adds a bit more tang but keeps the creamy texture.

Conclusion

Smothered Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken is pure comfort in a casserole dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all with minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or serving guests, this dish never fails to impress—and I always find myself going back for seconds.