why make this recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious and easy dish that makes weeknight dinners a breeze. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein. Plus, it only takes a little time to prepare, making it perfect for busy families. The combination of cream cheese and chives gives the chicken a rich taste that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
how to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over them. Optionally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the topping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
how to serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
To serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, place portioned pieces on a plate alongside your favorite sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Drizzle some of the creamy sauce from the baking dish over the chicken for extra flavor.
how to store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
tips to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing with the other ingredients. This helps to create a smooth sauce.
- You can add your favorite herbs or spices to the cream cheese mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Feel free to use other cheese varieties if you don’t have cheddar cheese on hand.
variation
For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the cream cheese mixture for added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
You can replace chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over them.
- Optionally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If using cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the topping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.