This is the best recipe for lunch and/or supper! The sauce for the top of the chicken takes it to a whole new level! It makes for a great main dish that is easy to make & it does not dirty every dish in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless & skinless chicken breasts
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 T. olive oil

Ingredients for the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 c. sour cream
• 1/2 c. mayonnaise
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp. salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 c. Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Optional Extra Ingredients:

• 1/2 c. mozzarella or cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
• Red pepper flakes, for added heat

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375° F.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13″ baking dish.
3. If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally, or gently pound them down to about 1″ thick for even cooking.
4. Pat & dry the chicken breasts. Then season them generously with salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste).
5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden.
6. Transfer the chicken to the baking dish.
7. In a bowl mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, freshly ground black pepper & Parmesan cheese. Mix them until they are smooth and creamy.
8. Spread the creamy topping sauce mixture generously over the chicken breasts. If you are using the mozzarella cheese then sprinkle it on top of everything.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches 165° F internal temp.
10. For a golden, bubbly topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch it carefully so that it does not burn.
11. Once the chicken is finished baking, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will keep all of the juices locked in.
12. Garnish with parsley or chives (if desired), serve & enjoy!