are you ready to whip up a tasty meal that’s both easy and fancy? My Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any night of the week! With a rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy asparagus, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds—trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

Cook Time: 20

Prep Time: 15

Yields: 4

Calories: 695

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Creamy chicken and Asparagus Bake

Creating a Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake means gathering a few simple yet flavorful ingredients that will bring this dish to life. Here’s what you’ll need to make a satisfying meal for four:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each) – This is the star of our dish, providing rich protein.
1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces – Fresh and vibrant, asparagus adds a nice crunch and spring flavor.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – This will help coat the chicken and create a luscious sauce.
3/4 teaspoon granulated garlic – Adds a wonderful garlic flavor to the dish.
2 teaspoons kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – A touch of spice to balance the dish.
1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the chicken perfectly.
1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds richness to our sauce.
3 tablespoons chicken broth – This will help make our sauce extra savory.
1/4 cup chopped shallot – A mild, sweet onion that complements the dish.
1/4 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio) – this adds depth and complexity.
3 thyme sprigs (plus leaves for garnish) – Fresh thyme brings an aromatic touch.
1 cup chicken broth – More liquid for our flavorful sauce.
1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream – This creates that creamy texture we love.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – For a cheesy finish that elevates the dish.

With these ingredients in hand, we’re ready to create a delightful meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Let’s move on to the fun part!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake to life. Just follow these steps:

preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for baking the chicken and asparagus.

Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of flour and 3/4 teaspoon of granulated garlic. Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture,making sure to coat them well. Shake off any excess flour.

Sear the Chicken: In a large ovenproof skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the chicken breasts. Let them cook for about 4 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden brown color. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a clean plate.

Sauté the Shallots: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped shallot and sauté for about 30 seconds until softened. Pour in the 1/4 cup of white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for added flavor.

Make the sauce: Stir in the thyme sprigs and 1 cup of chicken broth. In a small bowl, whisk the remaining flour mixture with 3 tablespoons of chicken broth until smooth. Gradually add this slurry to the skillet,stirring continuously until the mixture begins to simmer.

Combine and Bake: Return the browned chicken to the skillet and arrange the asparagus around it. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C).

Finish the Dish: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in 1/2 cup of crème fraîche and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce until well combined.This will give you a rich, creamy sauce to spoon over the chicken.

Serve: Plate the chicken and asparagus, then generously pour the creamy sauce on top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves for a stunning presentation.

And just like that, you have a stunning and delicious Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving and Storage Tips for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake

After you’ve created your Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake, serving it correctly can elevate the dining experience. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Here’s how to serve and store it:

serving Suggestions:

Plate It Right: Arrange the chicken breasts on individual plates and spoon the creamy sauce over them. Add a generous portion of asparagus on the side.
garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top to give it a pop of color and an extra touch of flavor.
Pairing Options: This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of mashed potatoes or rice works well too, balancing the meal perfectly.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers (which is rare), allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave it for a quicker option, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container and enjoy it within 2 months for the best taste. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can maximize your enjoyment of this delicious meal while keeping it fresh and flavorful!

Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake

Cooking can sometimes present challenges, but with my Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting tips, you’ll tackle any bumps along the way. Here’s what you should know:

Recipe Notes:

Chicken Alternatives: If you’re looking to substitute, feel free to use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
vegan Variations: For a plant-based version, consider swapping the chicken for tofu or seitan and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also use a vegan cream alternative in place of crème fraîche.

Troubleshooting:

Sauce Too thick: If your sauce turns out too thick, simply whisk in a bit more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Chicken Not Browning: If the chicken isn’t browning as was to be expected, ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to allow for proper searing.
Asparagus Overcooked: To prevent overcooked asparagus, you can add it to the skillet halfway through the baking process. This way, it remains crisp and vibrant.

With these notes and tips, you’re well-equipped to adjust the recipe as needed and troubleshoot any issues that arise, ensuring your Creamy Chicken and Asparagus Bake is a success every time you make it!