Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, savory dish that brings rich flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Tender chicken breasts are topped with a luscious cream cheese sauce and baked to perfection, making it a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.

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)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Step 2: 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.
3. Step 3: 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.
4. Step 4: 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.
5. Step 5: 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.
6. Step 6: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before searing.
• Swap fresh chives with green onions or parsley if preferred.
• Add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese sauce for a bright, fresh note.
• Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese as an alternative topping for a different melt and flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, being careful not to dry out the chicken. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the cream cheese sauce may separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, fully thaw them in the refrigerator before starting the recipe.

What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 113 reviews

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with a hint of garlic and fresh chives. Seared to golden perfection before baking, it offers a deliciously creamy texture topped with melted cheddar cheese for an optional crispy finish. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp paprika

Cream Cheese Sauce

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings and Garnish

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season and Sear the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add the softened cream cheese and stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the fresh chives, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble for Baking: Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over the chicken. If desired, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top for a cheesy crust.
5. Bake and Broil: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For those using cheese topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Notes

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened before adding to the skillet, this helps to create a smooth sauce without lumps.
• Searing the chicken breasts before baking locks in moisture and adds flavor.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check that chicken has reached the safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• You can substitute fresh chives with green onions if preferred.
• The cheddar topping is optional but adds a nice golden crust when broiled.
• Leftover chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Cream cheese chicken, baked chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner, cheesy baked chicken