Irresistibly Juicy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Comfort meets elegance in this irresistible baked cream cheese chicken recipe that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Creamy, tender, and packed with rich flavors, this dish elevates weeknight dinners from ordinary to extraordinary.

Succulent chicken breasts nestle into a luxurious cream cheese sauce that melts perfectly in the oven.

Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory and smooth textures that will make your dinner table sing.

The secret lies in simple ingredients combined with expert technique, creating a meal that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.

Serve this show-stopping chicken alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

FAQs

• What's the purpose of adding chicken broth to the dish?

The chicken broth helps keep the chicken moist during baking, preventing it from drying out and ensuring a tender, juicy result.

• Can I use different herbs instead of chives?

Absolutely! You can substitute chives with other fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or green onions to customize the flavor profile of the cream cheese mixture.

• How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (75C). The juices should also run clear when you cut into the meat.

• Is it necessary to use sharp cheddar cheese for the topping?

No, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, monterey jack, or even a blend of cheeses to suit your taste.

Creamy Baked Cream Cheese Chicken That’s Pure Comfort

• Conquer Quick Comfort Food: Satisfy hunger fast with this delicious one-pan meal that combines ground beef, cheese, and crescent dough for a crowd-pleasing dinner solution.
• Master Minimal Prep Cooking: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want maximum flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Guaranteed to win over both kids and adults with its cheesy, savory profile and familiar Italian-inspired ingredients that everyone loves.
• Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows for quick ingredient swaps like ground turkey, different cheeses, or added vegetables to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken Bake

• Chicken Breasts: A lean and tender protein that serves as the base of this delicious baked dish.

• Cream Cheese: Provides a rich, creamy coating that adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the cream cheese mixture.
• Chives: Offers a mild onion-like flavor and fresh green color to the topping.
• Paprika: Brings a subtle warmth and slight reddish color to the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Chicken Broth: Helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor during baking.
• Olive Oil: Used for greasing the dish and creating a slightly crisp exterior.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Optional topping that adds a cheesy, golden finish to the chicken.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a bright, fresh finish and adds a pop of green color to the dish.

How to Bake Cream Cheese Chicken Perfectly

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your chicken gets perfectly cooked and golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray with non-stick cooking spray or brush with olive oil. This prevents any stubborn sticking.

Step 3: Whip Up the Creamy Mixture

• Softened cream cheese
• Minced garlic
• Chopped chives
• Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

Blend everything until you get a smooth, dreamy mixture that looks absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

Gently place chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly like sunbathers on a beach.

Step 5: Coat with Creamy Goodness

Spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast, making sure every inch gets some love.

Step 6: Add Moisture Magic

Pour chicken broth around the chicken.

This secret weapon keeps the meat juicy and tender.

Step 7: Drizzle and Shine

Give the chicken a light drizzle of olive oil.

This helps create a crispy, golden top that’ll make mouths water.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.

Step 9: Optional Cheese Finale

In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra flavor punch.

Step 10: Rest and Garnish

Pull the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 11: Serve and Enjoy

Plate up this delicious creation and serve with your favorite sides. Get ready for compliments!

Tips for Creamy Baked Chicken That’s Full of Flavor

• Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier blending and even spreading on chicken.
• Adding chicken broth keeps the meat incredibly juicy and prevents drying out during baking.
• Sprinkle sharp cheddar in the final minutes for a golden, crispy cheese crust that adds incredible flavor.
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165F, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked protein.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or extra chives can elevate the dish's brightness and provide a fresh finishing touch.

Delicious Variations for Cream Cheese Chicken Bake

• Keto Cream Cheese Chicken: Replace chives with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Use full-fat cream cheese and skip the optional cheese topping to maintain low-carb macros.
• Low-Sodium Herb Chicken: Eliminate salt and use salt-free herb seasoning blend. Substitute chicken broth with white wine or water to control sodium intake.
• Mediterranean-Style Chicken: Add crumbled feta cheese instead of cheddar. Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and oregano into cream cheese mixture for Mediterranean flavors.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap cream cheese with cashew cream or coconut cream. Use nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for dairy-free option.

What to Pair with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

• Savor Creamy Chardonnay Pairing: Crisp, buttery Chardonnay complements the rich cream cheese sauce, enhancing the chicken's delicate flavors with its smooth oak undertones.
• Roast Herbed Vegetables: Prepare roasted asparagus, zucchini, and bell peppers with fresh thyme and rosemary to provide a vibrant, colorful side that balances the creamy chicken's richness.
• Serve Rustic Quinoa Pilaf: Light, fluffy quinoa mixed with toasted pine nuts and fresh parsley creates a protein-packed accompaniment that absorbs the chicken's delicious pan juices.
• Pair Crisp Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, providing a refreshing and light contrast to the creamy, indulgent chicken dish.

Storing Cream Cheese Chicken So It Lasts

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date and contents.
• Place chicken on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature and moisture. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.
• Preheat oven to 325F. Place chicken in baking dish, add splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover with foil and warm for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

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

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Description

Creamy baked cream cheese chicken brings comfort straight from home kitchens to dinner tables with irresistible flavor. Cheesy, tender chicken promises a delightful meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dairy and Cheese:

• 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) package of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (56 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)

Seasonings and Herbs:

• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), establishing the optimal cooking environment for the chicken.
2. Prepare a baking dish by coating it with olive oil or non-stick spray to prevent adherence and ensure easy serving.
3. Create a smooth, aromatic cream cheese blend by whisking together softened cream cheese, garlic, chives, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully incorporated.
4. Arrange chicken breasts in the prepared dish, positioning them with adequate spacing for even cooking.
5. Generously spread the seasoned cream cheese mixture across each chicken breast, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Enhance moisture and flavor by carefully pouring chicken broth around the chicken pieces.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the top to promote a delicate, crispy exterior during baking.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75C) with clear, running juices.
9. Optional: During the final 5 minutes, sprinkle sharp cheddar cheese over the chicken to create a golden, melted topping.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest briefly, enabling juice redistribution for maximum tenderness.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
12. Plate and serve immediately alongside complementary side dishes while warm.

Notes

• Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier mixing without lumps.
• Gently pat chicken breasts dry before adding cream cheese mixture to help seasoning adhere better.
• For a lighter version, swap full-fat cream cheese with low-fat or Greek yogurt cream cheese alternative.
• Create herb variations by experimenting with different fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill instead of chives for unique flavor profiles.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 355 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 420 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 3 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg