Baked Chicken Breast With Sour Cream and Onion Sauce

Created on January 13th, 2026 at 12:09 pm

A creamy oven baked chicken dinner with familiar comfort flavors

There is something deeply comforting about baked chicken coming out of the oven, especially when it is surrounded by a creamy sauce that feels familiar and soothing. Baked chicken breast with sour cream and onion sauce brings together simple ingredients that many people already love, turning them into a dinner that feels warm, filling, and reliable. As it bakes, the sauce gently thickens and coats the chicken, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being heavy.

This recipe is rooted in everyday comfort cooking. The tang of sour cream, the sweetness of softened onions, and the savory seasoning come together in a way that feels nostalgic, like meals that were made to bring everyone to the table without fuss. It is the kind of dinner that works just as well on a quiet weeknight as it does when you want something comforting after a long day.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Kitchen Utensils

This recipe is designed to be approachable, using basic kitchen tools that make preparation easy and cleanup manageable. Everything comes together in one baking dish, keeping the process simple from start to finish.

• Baking dish
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula

Why Sour Cream and Onion Is Such a Classic Pairing

Sour cream and onion is a flavor combination that feels instantly familiar. The sour cream adds a gentle tang and creamy texture, while the onions bring sweetness and depth as they soften during baking. Together, they create a sauce that is rich without being overwhelming and comforting without feeling heavy.

When paired with baked chicken breast, this sauce helps keep the meat moist and tender. As the chicken cooks, it absorbs the flavors around it, allowing the sauce to become more savory and balanced. This is what makes the dish so satisfying, even though the ingredients themselves are simple and accessible.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder

For the Sour Cream and Onion Sauce

• Sour cream
• Yellow onion
• Olive oil
• Dried onion flakes
• Dried parsley
• Paprika

Instructions

This recipe focuses on layering flavor while keeping the process straightforward. The oven does most of the work, allowing the sauce to gently bake into the chicken.

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Finely slice the onion and place it in a small pan with olive oil. Cook gently until softened and lightly golden, then set aside.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
4. Arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cooked onions, dried onion flakes, dried parsley, and paprika. Stir until smooth.
6. Spoon the sour cream and onion sauce evenly over the chicken breasts, spreading it gently to cover the tops.
7. Bake uncovered until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is lightly set and golden around the edges.
8. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.

Tips & Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can replace part of the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the tang while reducing richness slightly.

Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts if you prefer darker meat. They stay very juicy and work well with the creamy sauce.

For deeper onion flavor, you can add a small amount of onion powder to the sauce along with the dried flakes.

Storage & Make Ahead

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce thickens as it cools, but it reheats well when warmed gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

You can prepare the sour cream and onion sauce earlier in the day and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply assemble the dish and bake.

How This Recipe Fits Into a Family Dinner Routine

Baked chicken breast with sour cream and onion sauce is a dependable recipe that fits easily into a weekly meal plan. It requires minimal hands on time and uses ingredients that are often already in the refrigerator or pantry.

Because it is baked rather than cooked on the stovetop, it frees you up to prepare sides or simply relax while dinner cooks. This makes it especially appealing for busy evenings when you want a home cooked meal without extra effort.

Serving Ideas for a Comfort Focused Meal

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, all of which soak up the creamy sauce. A simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans adds balance and freshness.

For a more casual presentation, serve the chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a simple salad. The mild, creamy sauce complements many sides without overpowering them.

A Creamy Chicken Dinner That Feels Familiar

This recipe is all about comfort and ease. The flavors are familiar, the preparation is simple, and the result is a meal that feels reassuring and satisfying. It is the kind of dish that earns its place in a regular rotation because it delivers every time without complication.

Baked chicken breast with sour cream and onion sauce is proof that you do not need elaborate ingredients or techniques to create a meal that feels warm, generous, and worth sitting down for.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe ahead of time
Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature briefly before placing it in the oven for even cooking.

How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out
The sour cream sauce helps protect the chicken as it bakes. Be careful not to overcook, and let the dish rest briefly after baking so juices redistribute.

Can I use low fat sour cream
Low fat sour cream can be used, but the sauce may be slightly thinner and less rich. Stirring in a small amount of Greek yogurt can help improve texture.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers
Reheat gently in the oven covered loosely with foil, or warm slowly on the stovetop to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I add cheese to this dish
Yes, a small amount of grated Parmesan or mozzarella can be sprinkled on top during the last few minutes of baking for extra richness.