Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish that transforms simple chicken breasts into a flavorful meal. With a rich sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and fresh chives, this recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.

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 cooking.
• Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a subtle kick.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness.

Storage

Store leftover baked cream cheese chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to prevent the sauce from separating. For best texture and flavor, reheat in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cream cheese?

You can substitute cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor may be slightly different. Avoid cheeses that melt too much or become oily when heated.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?

Searing the chicken adds a nice golden crust and enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just be sure to bake the chicken until fully cooked through.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 125 reviews

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a flavorful and creamy dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a smooth cream cheese and chive sauce, topped with optional cheddar cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

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

Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

Toppings and Garnish

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

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking during baking.
2. Season and sear chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the cream cheese sauce: 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 let it reduce slightly. Add the softened cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts into a smooth sauce. Mix in the fresh chives and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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 cheddar cheese over the top.
5. Bake the chicken: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes if cheddar cheese was added.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve warm alongside your favorite side dishes.

Notes

• You can substitute fresh chives with green onions or parsley if chives are unavailable.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
• Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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