Which steps are needed to change motherboard on Windows 7 without reinstalling?

I am planning to upgrade my Sapphire AM2+ Motherboard (Chipset 780G) with a new MSI AM3 (Chipset 785G).

I don't want to format and reinstall Windows 7.

I have heard that with Windows XP is not that easy because SATA drivers are not available by default, but maybe for Windows 7 things are easier.

Do you know which steps do I have to follow to achieve my target?

The chipsets are hopefully close enough that it should work without too much problems.

It worked for me when I replaced the motherboard of my PC, from an Asus P5B-E (chipset P965) to an Asus P5Q-E (chipset P45). Windows 7 (64-bits Ultimate) took some time to identify the new hardware and install the drivers but, after a reboot, it worked flawlessly.

Make sure to have the minimum of external peripherals connected when you restart the PC (except mouse and keyboard), and add them back once at a time after the motherboard devices have been identified and the PC rebooted.