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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://victoriablair.com/baked-cream-cheese-chicken-recipe/