Dinner Ideas

Chicken and Asparagus Cream Bake

If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy, wholesome, and satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug in every bite, then Chicken and Asparagus Cream Bake is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, crisp yet soft asparagus, melty cheese, and a velvety cream sauce—all baked together until bubbling and golden perfection.

It’s the kind of meal that fits beautifully into any occasion: family dinner nights, holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish without the restaurant price tag. The flavors are rich yet balanced, and the ingredients work together in harmony to create something truly irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect balance of fresh veggies and indulgent creaminess. The asparagus gives the dish a slight crisp bite and earthy flavor, while the chicken provides protein richness. The sauce ties everything together with a silky texture that is comforting and luxurious.

It’s also incredibly versatile—serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even enjoy it as a standalone casserole. Plus, the aroma while it bakes is heavenly and will have everyone waiting impatiently at the dinner table.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because:

It’s easy to make yet feels elegant.
It’s family-friendly—even picky eaters enjoy it.
It’s adaptable—make it healthier, cheesier, spicier, or keto-friendly.
It’s great for meal prep—stores and reheats beautifully.
It’s a full balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and creamy sauce.

It checks every box for comfort and quality!

Time & Serving Details

CategoryInfo
Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Time30–35 minutes
Total Time45–50 minutes
Servings4–6 servings
Calories per ServingApprox. 430–520 kcal (depending on cheese/sauce options)
CourseMain Course
CuisineAmerican / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Bake

  • 2–3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
  • 2 cups asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1–2 inch pieces
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Cream Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cooking Directions (Overview)

Make the cream sauce.

  1. Prepare chicken and asparagus.
  2. Combine all ingredients in a baking dish.
  3. Bake until bubbly and golden.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus

  • Wash and trim the hard ends.
  • Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • Optional: Blanch for 1–2 minutes to soften.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

  1. Heat butter and oil in a saucepan.
  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until slightly golden.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
  4. Add cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Simmer until thickened, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, asparagus, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan.
  3. Pour sauce over mixture and stir gently.
  4. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan and paprika on top.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden, bubbly, and slightly browned.

How to Serve

Serve hot with:

  • Buttered noodles
  • Garlic bread
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Rice or risotto
  • A fresh salad or roasted vegetables

For an elevated touch: garnish with fresh parsley or lemon zest.

Recipe Tips

  • Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • Don’t overcook asparagus before baking—keep some crispness.
  • Add more cheese on top if you like a golden crust.
  • If sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a splash of milk.

Variations

StyleAdjustment
Low Carb / KetoReplace flour with almond flour or omit completely; use full-fat cream.
Spicy VersionAdd red pepper flakes, Cajun seasoning, or spicy shredded cheese.
Mushroom AdditionAdd sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
Cheese Up!Use Gruyère, cheddar, or pepper jack for a stronger flavor.
Gluten-FreeUse cornstarch slurry instead of flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs for topping.

Freezing & Storage

  • Refrigerate: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
  • Freeze before baking: Up to 2 months; thaw overnight before cooking.
  • Freeze after baking: Up to 1 month; reheat covered at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Mixing bowl

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes—thaw and drain well before using.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
You can, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken gives better texture.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use almond milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese.

Q: Can this be doubled?
Absolutely—just use a larger casserole dish.

Conclusion

Chicken and Asparagus Cream Bake is one of those dishes you’ll make once and immediately add to your regular rotation. It’s creamy, cozy, flavorful, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. The simplicity of the ingredients paired with the richness of the final dish makes it a perfect meal for casual dinners or special gatherings.

Chicken and Asparagus Cream Bake

Recipe by Rhonda AndersonCourse: Dinner IdeasCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Total time

45

minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Bake

  • 2–3 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)

  • 2 cups asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1–2 inch pieces

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

  • For the Cream Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Directions

  • Step 1: Prepare the Asparagus : Wash and trim the hard ends. Cut into bite-sized pieces. Optional: Blanch for 1–2 minutes to soften.
  • Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce : Heat butter and oil in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until slightly golden. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Add cream, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer until thickened, stirring constantly.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Bake : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine chicken, asparagus, mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. Pour sauce over mixture and stir gently. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan and paprika on top.
  • Step 4: Bake : Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden, bubbly, and slightly browned.