Description
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, savory, and easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a flavorful cream cheese topping. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal with minimal ingredients and prep. The chicken is seasoned, then topped with a mixture of softened cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and optional toppings like bacon or shredded cheese. It’s baked until the chicken is juicy and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Serve this comforting dish alongside your favorite sides for a delicious dinner that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the chicken.
Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the chicken from sticking to the dish and makes for easier cleanup later.
Blend the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the minced garlic, chopped chives, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth and well combined. The garlic and chives add a lovely flavor to the cream cheese, while the paprika gives it a subtle kick and a beautiful color.
Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Lay the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Ensure they are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking.
Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast. Use a spatula to ensure good coverage, making sure each breast is generously coated with the mixture. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken moist during baking.
Add the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the dish. The chicken broth helps to keep the chicken moist and adds a bit of flavor to the dish.
Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken breasts, allowing it to blend slightly with the cream cheese mixture. This helps to create a nice, slightly crispy top layer on the chicken.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer, and the juices should run clear.
Optional Cheese Topping: If you’re adding shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a bubbly crust, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust to the dish.
Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even more tender and flavorful.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish the chicken with fresh parsley to enhance the visual appeal. Serve the baked cream cheese chicken hot, alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Type of Chicken:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for this recipe as they cook quickly and evenly. However, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier result, though the cooking time may need to be adjusted. - Softening Cream Cheese:
Be sure to let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before mixing. This will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients and ensure smooth, even coverage on the chicken. - Seasoning Options:
While garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper are standard seasonings, feel free to customize the flavor by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. You can also spice it up with paprika or cayenne if you like a bit of heat. - Add-Ons for Extra Flavor:
Consider adding ingredients like crispy bacon, grated parmesan, or fresh spinach to the cream cheese mixture for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can also be added for a healthier version. - Baking Tips:
Bake the chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a golden top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning the cream cheese layer. - Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over pasta or rice. - Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. - Reheating:
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out. If using a microwave, cover the dish to retain moisture.