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Oven Baked Smothered Chicken with Bacon Bits and Parmesan Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Oven Baked Smothered Chicken topped with crispy bacon bits and Parmesan cheese. This dish combines juicy, tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, and baked to perfection. The addition of bacon bits adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor, while the Parmesan cheese melts to create a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or anytime you crave a hearty, satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking dish
  • Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  • For the Smothered Chicken:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions

  • For the Smothered Chicken:
  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
  • Cook the Bacon: In a skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, crumble it, and set aside.
  • Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it in a baking dish.
  • Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Assemble the Dish: Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken breasts in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon bits.
  • Bake the Chicken: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  • Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve the smothered chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.