Why Make This Recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for dinner. It combines tender chicken breasts with a rich cream cheese sauce, making it a hit with both kids and adults. This recipe is simple to follow and results in a meal that feels special without requiring tons of time in the kitchen. Plus, the cream cheese adds a wonderful creaminess that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
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 olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add 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 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
You can serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken with a variety of side dishes. It goes well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple salad. You could also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.
Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Make sure the cream cheese is well softened before mixing to ensure a smooth sauce.
- You can add other herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor.
- If you like a bit of spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding vegetables to the baking dish, such as broccoli or spinach, for a more nutritious meal. Additionally, you can use different cheeses or add your favorite seasonings to customize the flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese or cashew-based cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, just bake as directed.
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 olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add 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 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.