The Best Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe For Cozy Nights

Tender chicken breasts meet their match with creamy baked cream cheese chicken that melts in your mouth.

This simple yet elegant dish promises rich, comforting flavors in every bite.

Weeknight dinners demand easy solutions, and this recipe delivers maximum taste with minimal effort.

The combination of juicy chicken and velvety cream cheese creates a luxurious main course that feels indulgent.

Herbs and seasonings add depth to the already irresistible protein, making each forkful a delightful experience.

Anyone seeking a crowd-pleasing meal that comes together quickly will adore this straightforward recipe.

Prepare to transform an ordinary evening into a memorable dining moment with this delectable chicken creation.

What Makes Baked Cream Cheese Chicken So Comforting

• Flavor-Packed Comfort: Creamy cream cheese and zesty garlic create a mouthwatering combination that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for busy families, easy weeknight dinners, or impressing guests with minimal preparation time.
• Healthy Protein Boost: Lean chicken breasts paired with a flavorful cream cheese mixture provide a nutritious and satisfying meal that keeps you full and energized.

Ingredients You Need for Cream Cheese Chicken Bake

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless, perfect for a lean and healthy meal.

• Cream Cheese: Soft and creamy base for the chicken topping.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Optional topping for extra cheesy goodness.

• Garlic, Chives, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Flavorful blend that adds depth to the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Moisture-rich liquid for keeping chicken tender.
• Olive Oil: Helps create a slightly crispy top layer.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb for a fresh finishing touch.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to 375°F.

This temperature ensures perfect cooking for the chicken.

Step 2: Prepare The Cooking Surface

Grab a baking dish and coat it lightly with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create Creamy Seasoning Blend

• Softened cream cheese
• Minced garlic
• Chopped chives
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk everything together until smooth and well integrated.

Step 4: Position The Chicken

Place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly to guarantee uniform cooking.

Step 5: Apply Flavorful Coating

Generously spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Add Moisture Boost

Pour chicken broth around the chicken pieces.

This liquid helps maintain tenderness during baking.

Step 7: Enhance With Oil

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, which will help create a slightly crispy exterior.

Step 8: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

Step 9: Optional Cheesy Finish

For extra indulgence, sprinkle sharp cheddar cheese during the final 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 10: Let The Chicken Rest

Remove from oven and allow chicken to sit for a few minutes.

This helps redistribute juices, ensuring maximum tenderness.

Step 11: Plate And Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside your favorite accompaniments.

Tips for Creamy, Juicy Baked Chicken Results

• Use chicken broth and olive oil to keep the meat juicy and tender during baking, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in the cream cheese mixture to create unique taste variations that suit your preferences.
• Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F, preventing undercooking and ensuring food safety without guesswork.
• Add sharp cheddar during the last few minutes of baking for a crispy, golden top that adds rich, melty texture to the dish.
• Mix cream cheese blend in advance and store in refrigerator, allowing flavors to meld and making dinner preparation faster and more convenient.

Storing and Reheating Cream Cheese Chicken Properly

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed, the dish maintains freshness for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe containers. Frozen chicken stays good for up to 2 months without losing flavor quality.
• Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each cycle to prevent overcooking.

Perfect Pairings for Cream Cheese Chicken

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Enhance the creamy, rich flavors of the baked chicken by selecting a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These light, acidic wines cut through the richness of the cream cheese and complement the delicate chicken perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetable Medley: Create a colorful side dish of roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini. The caramelized edges and slight char will provide a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy chicken.
• Herbed Quinoa Pilaf: Prepare a light and fluffy quinoa pilaf with fresh herbs like parsley and chives. The protein-packed grain offers a nutty flavor and textural contrast that balances the creamy chicken dish beautifully.
• Citrus Salad Starter: Begin the meal with a bright, zesty citrus salad featuring mixed greens, orange segments, and a light vinaigrette. The fresh, tangy flavors will awaken the palate and prepare guests for the rich main course.

Tasty Spins on Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace cream cheese with cashew cream or silken tofu blended until smooth. Use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor and coconut oil instead of olive oil.
• Herb Garden Remix: Swap chives with fresh basil, dill, or tarragon. Add lemon zest for brightness and use different herb combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
• Low-Carb Protein Boost: Skip chicken broth and use bone broth for extra nutrients. Sprinkle almond flour or crushed pork rinds on top for a crispy texture without breadcrumbs.
• Mediterranean Style: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and oregano into cream cheese mixture. Top with crumbled feta cheese during final baking minutes for a Greek-inspired version.

FAQs

• Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This dish can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free chicken broth and checking ingredient labels. For low-carb diets, it’s naturally compliant. However, those with dairy sensitivities should be cautious due to cream cheese.

• Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or substitute the optional cheddar with mozzarella, parmesan, or monterey jack. Each cheese will provide a unique flavor profile to the chicken.

• How do I ensure the chicken stays moist during baking?

By adding chicken broth around the chicken and using the cream cheese mixture as a protective layer, you’ll help retain moisture. Also, avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest after baking to keep it tender and juicy.

• What are some recommended side dishes to serve with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or mixed vegetable medley work well. Rice pilaf, mashed potatoes, or a light salad also complement the creamy chicken perfectly.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Creamy baked cream cheese chicken elevates weeknight dinners with its rich, comforting flavors. Family-friendly and simple to prepare, this dish delivers a satisfying blend of tender chicken and luscious cream cheese that promises to become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dairy:

• 1 8-ounce (226 grams) package of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the culinary canvas by warming the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an ideal thermal environment for transforming chicken into a delectable masterpiece.
2. Select a baking vessel and coat its surface with a whisper of olive oil, preventing potential adhesion and facilitating effortless serving.
3. Craft a luxurious cream cheese amalgamation by blending softened cream cheese with aromatic garlic, delicate chives, vibrant paprika, and essential seasoning until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
4. Arrange chicken breasts within the prepared dish, positioning them with strategic precision to promote uniform heat distribution.
5. Lavishly coat each chicken breast with the herb-infused cream cheese mixture, ensuring comprehensive coverage that promises moisture and intense flavor infusion.
6. Cascade chicken broth around the protein, creating a succulent liquid foundation that will enhance tenderness during the cooking process.
7. Anoint the chicken with a gentle olive oil drizzle, which will contribute to developing a subtly crisp exterior while maintaining internal juiciness.
8. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven, allowing the chicken to transform for approximately 25-30 minutes until reaching a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
9. Optional: During the final cooking moments, sprinkle sharp cheddar cheese across the surface for an indulgent, golden-brown enhancement.
10. Extract the dish from the oven and permit the chicken a brief resting period, enabling internal juices to redistribute and guarantee maximum succulence.
11. Conclude by adorning with fresh parsley and presenting the aromatic creation alongside complementary accompaniments.

Notes

• Swap cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or tofu-based spreads to accommodate lactose-intolerant or vegan diets.
• Use skinless chicken breasts to reduce overall fat content while maintaining a tender, juicy texture.
• Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake and create a healthier version of the dish.
• Pat chicken breasts dry before seasoning to ensure the cream cheese mixture adheres perfectly and promotes better browning.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 335
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg