01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. If chicken breasts are thick, slice horizontally or gently pound to 1 inch thickness for even cooking. Pat dry and season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 -
For deeper flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts 2–3 minutes per side until golden, then transfer to the prepared baking dish. Alternatively, place seasoned chicken directly into the dish.
03 -
In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
04 -
Generously spread the creamy mixture over each chicken breast. Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for extra richness, if desired.
05 -
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For a golden, bubbly top, broil during the final 2–3 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning.
06 -
Let rest briefly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat if desired. Serve warm.