Dinner

Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Bake Recipe

ByCharlotte Montgomery February 24, 2026February 24, 2026

Introduction

This Cheesy Sour Cream Chicken Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. Tender chicken breasts are topped with a creamy, cheesy mixture and a crunchy cracker topping, then baked to perfection. It’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.

A white baking dish holds three pieces of creamy baked chicken layered with a white sauce base, topped with a golden brown crust made from melted cheese and bread crumbs, and scattered with bright green chopped herbs. The chicken pieces are plump and tender, covered in bubbly, creamy sauce pooling slightly around them. The golden crust adds a crunchy texture that contrasts with the smooth sauce, with flecks of herbs adding a fresh, colorful touch. The dish is set against a white marbled surface, highlighting the rich colors and textures of the chicken and topping. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil for greasing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Spread the sour cream mixture evenly over each chicken breast, coating the tops generously.
Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: In another bowl, mix the crushed crackers and grated Parmesan cheese together. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
Step 6: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the topping is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sour cream mixture.
Substitute crushed crackers with panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier topping.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier and healthier option.
If you like, add a layer of cooked spinach or mushrooms under the sour cream mixture for added veggies.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to help maintain the crunchy topping. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp.

How to Serve

Three pieces of cooked chicken breast sit in a white baking dish, each covered with a golden brown layer of melted cheese and crispy breadcrumbs. The chicken is surrounded by a creamy white sauce that pools around the edges. Fresh green parsley is sprinkled on top, adding a bright contrast to the golden and creamy colors. The close-up view shows the texture of the crunchy cheese crust and the smooth, creamy sauce below. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator before preparing the dish.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.