Baked Chicken Cream Chicken: 1 Secret for Tender Joy

Name: Baked Chicken Cream Chicken: 1 Secret for Tender Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: PT-491820H1M23S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-6 pieces of chicken (breasts or thighs); 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 packet onion soup mix; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing); Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

by Fenna Saul

October 12, 2025

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Baked Chicken Cream Chicken has been a staple in my kitchen for years, ever since I first experimented with a simple creamy baked chicken recipe. I remember the first time I pulled this dish from the oven; the aroma of savory chicken and rich cream filled my home, instantly making it feel cozy and inviting. My family devoured it, and I knew I had found a winner.

This particular baked chicken in creamy sauce recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights because it’s so incredibly easy yet feels wonderfully indulgent. The way the chicken becomes so tender, practically melting in your mouth, enveloped in that rich, flavorful sauce, is just pure comfort food.

It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, and honestly, who doesn’t love a delicious, easy dinner? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

I’ve discovered so many reasons to adore this Baked Chicken Cream Chicken, and I know you will too! It’s a dish that truly delivers on all fronts, making it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotations.

The taste is simply divine; tender chicken bathed in a rich, savory cream sauce that’s incredibly satisfying.
It’s an easy baked creamy chicken recipe, requiring minimal hands-on time, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
This recipe is surprisingly budget-friendly, utilizing common ingredients you likely already have or can easily find.
It’s a fantastic family-friendly meal that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy, making dinner time stress-free.
You’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare, truly an easy baked creamy chicken dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
This comforting meal offers a good source of protein, making it a wholesome and fulfilling dinner option.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

To create this incredibly flavorful Baked Chicken Cream Chicken, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. I love how accessible these items are, making it easy to whip up this chicken baked in cream sauce any night of the week.

4-6 pieces of chicken (breasts or thighs) – I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs for extra flavor and moisture, but boneless breasts work beautifully too.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – This is the base for our rich, creamy sauce. Don’t worry, it creates a delicious gravy!
1 cup chicken broth – Helps to thin out the soup slightly, ensuring a perfect consistency for the sauce that coats every piece of chicken baked in cream sauce.
1 packet onion soup mix – This is my secret weapon for an incredible depth of savory flavor without much effort.
Salt to taste – Always essential for seasoning your chicken.
Pepper to taste – A classic seasoning to complement the chicken.
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing) – I sometimes sear the chicken first for a little extra color and flavor, but it’s not strictly necessary.
Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a lovely pop of color and freshness at the end.

How to Make Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

Making this delicious Baked Chicken Cream Chicken is incredibly straightforward. Follow these creamy chicken bake instructions to create a comforting meal that will quickly become a family favorite. I promise, the aromas that fill your kitchen as it bakes are absolutely divine!

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature for even cooking right from the start.
Step 2: Season your chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. If you like, you can sear the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with olive oil for about 3-4 minutes per side. This step isn’t mandatory, but it adds a lovely golden-brown crust and extra depth of flavor to your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken.
Step 3: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the can of cream of chicken soup, the chicken broth, and the onion soup mix. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and fully blended. This forms the rich, creamy sauce that will envelop your chicken as it bakes.
Step 4: Place the seasoned (and seared, if you chose to do so) chicken pieces into a greased baking dish. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer for optimal cooking.
Step 5: Pour the prepared soup mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated in the creamy goodness. These creamy chicken bake instructions are designed for maximum flavor penetration!
Step 6: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the chicken and keep it incredibly moist during the initial baking phase. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 7: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, the sauce will thicken, and the chicken will develop a beautiful golden-brown finish.
Step 8: To ensure your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken is safe to eat, check its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C).
Step 9: Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
Step 10: If you wish, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous note. Enjoy your homemade Baked Chicken Cream Chicken!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this Baked Chicken Cream Chicken from good to absolutely incredible. These expert tips will help you achieve the most tender, flavorful, and perfectly sauced dish every time.

Don’t skip the searing step if you have time; it adds immense depth of flavor and a lovely texture to the chicken.
Always cover the baking dish for the first half of cooking to lock in moisture, then uncover to allow the sauce to thicken and the chicken to brown.
Let your chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This is crucial for juicy results, allowing the internal juices to redistribute.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in the sauce for an added aromatic layer to your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken.

Irresistible Baked Chicken Cream Chicken in a baking dish, golden brown and bubbling with creamy sauce, ready to be served.

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Chicken Cream Chicken?

The real secret to the best Baked Chicken Cream Chicken lies in the combination of the onion soup mix and the covering/uncovering baking method. The soup mix infuses a savory umami flavor throughout the sauce, while the two-stage baking ensures the chicken stays incredibly moist and tender, yielding a truly delicious baked cream chicken.

Can I make Baked Chicken Cream Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken up to the point of baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial covered baking time to account for the cold dish.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Chicken Cream Chicken?

To avoid common pitfalls with Baked Chicken Cream Chicken, first, don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and no more. Second, don’t forget to season your chicken directly before adding the sauce, as this layers the flavor. Lastly, ensure your baking dish is covered initially to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

Once your delicious Baked Chicken Cream Chicken is ready, you’ll want to pair it with sides that complement its rich, creamy flavor. I always think about balancing the meal, so here are my favorite creamy chicken dinner ideas to make it a complete and satisfying experience.

One classic pairing is fluffy white rice or egg noodles. They are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that incredible cream sauce. I find a simple side of buttered noodles or steamed rice truly enhances the comfort food aspect of this dish.

For a lighter touch, consider serving your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken with steamed green vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. A fresh, crisp side salad with a vinaigrette dressing also cuts through the richness beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course. Don’t forget some crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce!

Nutrition Facts for Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is always helpful, and this Baked Chicken Cream Chicken is no exception. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving for this comforting dish:

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 18g
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of your chicken or the brand of cream of chicken soup.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

I find that this Baked Chicken Cream Chicken often makes for fantastic leftovers, which is a huge plus for meal prepping! Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade baked cream chicken delicious and safe to eat.

First, allow any leftover chicken to cool completely before storing. Once cooled, transfer the chicken and its creamy sauce to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

For longer storage, this Baked Chicken Cream Chicken freezes wonderfully. Place individual portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

To reheat, I usually opt for the oven. Place the thawed chicken and sauce in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, for a quick reheat, use the microwave, stirring occasionally, until piping hot.

Delicious Baked Chicken Cream Chicken served with fluffy white rice and fresh green beans, showcasing a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Cream Chicken

Can I use a homemade cream sauce instead of canned soup for Baked Chicken Cream Chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid canned ingredients, you can easily make a homemade cream sauce. A simple béchamel (butter, flour, milk) seasoned with chicken broth, onion powder, and a touch of poultry seasoning works wonderfully. This will give your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken a fresh, customizable flavor profile.

What is baked cream chicken best served with?

Baked Chicken Cream Chicken is incredibly versatile! I love serving it with classic comfort sides like mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice, which are perfect for soaking up all that delicious creamy sauce. Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans also make an excellent, fresh accompaniment to balance the richness.

Can I add vegetables directly to the Baked Chicken Cream Chicken dish?

Yes, you can! Adding vegetables like sliced mushrooms, peas, or diced carrots directly to the baking dish along with the chicken is a great way to make it a one-pan meal. Just ensure they are cut into small pieces so they cook through at the same rate as the chicken, enhancing your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken with extra flavor and nutrients.

Is Baked Chicken Cream Chicken suitable for meal prepping?

It’s fantastic for meal prepping! This Baked Chicken Cream Chicken reheats beautifully, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Store individual portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and simply reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy a delicious, creamy chicken meal.

Variations of Baked Chicken Cream Chicken You Can Try

While my classic Baked Chicken Cream Chicken recipe is a beloved favorite, there are so many ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!

For a lighter twist on this chicken and cream oven recipe, consider swapping out the cream of chicken soup for a lighter cream of mushroom or even a homemade béchamel sauce made with skim milk. You can also add extra vegetables like sliced bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutritional content.

If you’re looking for a flavor kick, try adding a pinch of curry powder or smoked paprika to the cream sauce before baking. This infuses your Baked Chicken Cream Chicken with a wonderfully aromatic and slightly spicy note. Alternatively, for a cheesy variation, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top during the last 15 minutes of baking for a gooey, golden crust. This chicken and cream oven recipe is incredibly adaptable!