Creamy Baked Chicken with Asparagus and Peas
There’s nothing quite like a creamy baked chicken dinner to bring comfort and elegance to the table. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts, fresh asparagus spears, and sweet green peas baked together in a rich cream sauce topped with bubbling, golden cheese. It’s a simple recipe with restaurant-quality flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights as well as special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Vegetables
- 1 bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on both sides until lightly golden, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and onion, cooking until fragrant. Stir in flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream until smooth. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan, half the mozzarella, and Italian seasoning.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Place seared chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour sauce over the top. Arrange asparagus spears and peas evenly around the chicken. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Pro Tips
- Cheese upgrade: Try Gruyère, Fontina, or white cheddar for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Add lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice before serving brightens the creamy sauce.
- Don’t overcook asparagus: Trim stalks evenly and keep them slightly crisp for freshness.
- Double the sauce: If you like extra creaminess, make a little more sauce for serving over pasta.
- Meal prep tip: Sear chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, then assemble and bake when ready to eat.
Variations
- Mushroom addition: Sauté mushrooms with onions for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream sauce.
- Low-carb option: Serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
- Bacon lovers: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the dish before baking.
- Cheesy overload: Mix mozzarella with provolone or Monterey Jack for stretch and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes or in the microwave for 2–3 minutes. If sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of milk or cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 415 |
| Protein | 39 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 610 mg |
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work beautifully and stay extra juicy.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Yes, prepare up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, but thaw and pat dry before adding to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for cream?
Half-and-half works well, or use evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Serving Ideas
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for comfort food heaven.
- Pair with buttered noodles or pasta to soak up the sauce.
- Add a crusty loaf of bread to mop up every drop of cream.
- A crisp side salad balances the richness of the dish.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Baked Chicken with Asparagus and Peas is everything you want in a one-pan dinner: juicy chicken, tender vegetables, a luscious sauce, and bubbling cheese. It’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for special occasions. Once you make it, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for family dinners and gatherings.
