Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo is a delightful main course known for its rich, velvety texture, irresistible savory aroma, and vibrant colors. Inspired by cozy Mediterranean flavors, this modern version combines tender chicken and smoky chorizo with a lush, herb infused cream sauce to create a comforting and impressive dish that is as beautiful as it is delicious. With easy, step by step instructions, anyone can make this recipe at home and impress family and friends with restaurant quality results. Trust me, you’re going to love this.

Why This Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

This Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo stands out for its simplicity, bold flavor, and unbeatable comfort factor. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky chorizo, and silky cream sauce makes it perfect for cozy nights, relaxed dinners, or whenever you crave something warm and satisfying. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe guarantees impressive results every time. This one’s a total game changer, and let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

All Ingredients You’ll Ever Need

• 600 g boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into medium pieces
• 150 g chorizo sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 120 ml chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1⁄2 tsp black pepper
• 50 g grated mozzarella or mild melting cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Time Needed to Make This Recipe

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook/Chill Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Special Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or mixer
• Oven safe baking dish
• Knife or spatula
• Medium saucepan

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo

1. Prepare the Chicken and Chorizo
   Pat your chicken dry so it browns beautifully, then season it lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Slice the chorizo into thin rounds so they render their flavorful oils evenly.
2. Sauté to Build Flavor
   Heat olive oil and butter in a pan. Add the onions and cook until soft and fragrant. Stir in the garlic for a warm, aromatic base. Add the chorizo and sauté until its oils release, filling your kitchen with a smoky, mouthwatering aroma. Add the chicken and sear lightly on all sides without fully cooking it through.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce
   Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for a few minutes to lift the flavors from the pan. Add the heavy cream and oregano and whisk gently until the sauce becomes silky and smooth. The aroma at this point is heavenly.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Transfer everything into your baking dish. Top with the grated mozzarella and bake at 190 C for 20 to 25 minutes until the chicken becomes tender, the sauce bubbles gently, and the top turns lightly golden. Let it rest a few minutes before serving so the sauce thickens into a velvety blanket.

Serving Suggestions & Presentation Tips

• Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Present in a rustic casserole dish or wide shallow bowl.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness.
• For an elegant touch, drizzle a little extra cream around the edge before serving.

Extra Tips for Best Results

• Use chicken thighs if you want the juiciest texture, as they stay tender during baking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently so the cream sauce stays smooth.
• For perfect timing, prepare side dishes like rice or mashed potatoes while the dish bakes.

Variations You Can Try

• Swap mozzarella for cheddar or provolone for a deeper melt and flavor.
• Add baby spinach or roasted peppers to introduce extra nutrition and color.
• Serve with toasted bread slices for dipping into that luxurious creamy sauce.

FAQ’s – 10 Most Common Questions About Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Yes, chicken breasts work beautifully. Just avoid overcooking so they stay tender.

Q2: Is this dish spicy?

A: Chorizo adds mild heat, but you can choose a less spicy variety if you prefer a gentler flavor.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, assemble the dish earlier in the day, refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.

Q4: Can I freeze Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo?

A: It is best enjoyed fresh because cream sauces can separate when frozen.

Q5: What sides pair well with this dish?

A: Rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread make perfect companions.

Q6: Can I lighten the sauce?

A: You can replace part of the cream with evaporated milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

Q7: How do I know the chicken is cooked?

A: It should reach an internal temperature of 75 C and appear fully opaque and tender.

Q8: Can I add vegetables to the dish?

A: Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini blend well with the creamy, smoky flavors.

Q9: Does the chorizo need to be cooked before baking?

A: A quick sauté is enough to release its oils and deepen the flavor before baking.

Q10: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A: Let it simmer a few extra minutes before baking or reduce the broth slightly.

Conclusion

Creamy Baked Chicken & Chorizo is a show stopping main course that is surprisingly simple to make yet visually stunning. With its silky texture, bold smoky flavor, and comforting creaminess, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you will want to make it again and again.

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