Chicken Luxe Bake

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if preferred)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh if you have it)
• 1/2 tsp paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted (for the topping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked through since they’ll bake later. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Make the creamy sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened and translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
   • Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese, allowing them to melt into the sauce. Add Dijon mustard (if using), dried thyme, paprika, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 3 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the bake:
   • In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the seared chicken breasts. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the chicken.
4. Add the crispy topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the chicken and sauce, ensuring an even coating.
5. Bake:
   • Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling and golden brown on top.
6. Serve:
   • Remove the Chicken Luxe Bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

• Side dishes: Serve with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad to complement the creamy, cheesy chicken.
• Rice: A bed of fluffy rice would also be a great base for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Luxe Bake:

• Chicken variety: If you prefer a juicier result, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for a more tender option.
• Cheese variations: Swap the cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different flavor profile, or even mix in some cream cheese for extra creaminess.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

This Chicken Luxe Bake is sure to be a hit with its rich, cheesy sauce and tender chicken. It’s comfort food at its finest! 🧀🍗