Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

If you’re searching for a dinner recipe that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to make, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is your go-to dish. This creamy, garlicky chicken recipe features tender, golden-brown chicken breasts smothered in a luscious cream cheese sauce, optionally topped with sharp cheddar for an extra cheesy finish. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul and impresses both family and guests.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner when you crave something comforting or a weekend meal that deserves a touch of elegance, this recipe hits the sweet spot between simplicity and richness. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to master this creamy baked chicken at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we jump into the details, here’s why Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is destined to become a favorite in your recipe rotation:

• Creamy, rich flavor: The cream cheese sauce is silky and savory, elevating the humble chicken breast.
• Quick and approachable: Prep takes only 10 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable topping: Add cheddar for a cheesy crust or leave it off for a lighter version.
• Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual dinner parties.
• Pairs well with sides: Delicious alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s the full list of ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy baked chicken recipe exactly as intended. The measurements are precise for four servings.

Main Ingredients

• 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

Optional Topping & Garnish

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

Servings: 4 chicken breasts
Calories per serving: 420 kcal

Tools & Equipment Needed

To make this dish perfectly, gather the following:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Skillet (preferably non-stick or stainless steel)
• Cooking spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Oven mitts

Optional: Instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions for perfectly baked, creamy chicken every time.

1. Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. This prevents the chicken and sauce from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

2. Season the Chicken

Pat your 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp paprika. This ensures a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them through at this stage; the oven will finish the cooking. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Stir in 1/2 cup chicken broth and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add 8 oz softened cream cheese, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Finally, fold in 1 tbsp fresh chives and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over the chicken. If desired, sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.

6. Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’ve added cheddar cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned topping.

7. Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm alongside your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Tips & Variations

Make this recipe your own with these simple tips and tweaks:

• Extra flavor: Add a dash of lemon juice to the cream cheese sauce for a bright, fresh taste.
• Spice it up: Incorporate smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with large portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks.
• Dairy-free: Use vegan cream cheese and skip cheddar for a dairy-free alternative.
• Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free as long as toppings or sides are checked.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This dish is all about creamy richness and balanced seasoning:

• Taste: Garlicky, creamy, and slightly tangy from the cream cheese.
• Texture: Tender chicken with a smooth sauce, and optional cheesy crisp on top.

Suggested Drink Pairings

• Wine: Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complement the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a lemon twist or apple cider.

Ideal Side Dishes

• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed asparagus or green beans
• Herb-roasted carrots
• Simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette

Nutritional Overview (Estimated)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	420 kcal
Protein	35 g
Carbohydrates	5 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	2 g

Dietary considerations: Gluten-free (without sides), can be made dairy-free with substitutions.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare sauce in advance: The cream cheese mixture can be made 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge.
• Sear chicken in advance: Brown the chicken, refrigerate, and bake with sauce the next day.
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but thaw completely before searing to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I skip searing the chicken?
You can, but searing adds flavor and color to the chicken, enhancing the final dish.

3. What if I don’t have chives?
Green onions or finely chopped parsley can be substituted.

4. Can this recipe be doubled?
Absolutely! Use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

5. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use an instant-read thermometer: chicken is safe at 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep	10 mins
Sear Chicken	5–6 mins
Sauce Preparation	3–4 mins
Baking	25–30 mins
Broiling (optional)	2–3 mins
Total	40 mins

Serving Suggestions

• Plate each chicken breast with a generous drizzle of cream cheese sauce.
• Sprinkle additional fresh parsley or chives for color.
• Pair with roasted potatoes and a side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

1. Cheddar Herb Chicken: Add thyme or rosemary to the sauce before baking.
2. Bacon-Crusted Cream Cheese Chicken: Top with crumbled cooked bacon before broiling.
3. Mushroom Cream Cheese Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor.
4. Spicy Cream Cheese Chicken: Mix in 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breasts

• Opt for boneless, skinless for tender meat and even cooking.
• Pat dry before searing to achieve a golden crust.

Cream Cheese

• Use softened cream cheese for smooth incorporation into the sauce.
• Room temperature cream cheese blends more evenly, preventing lumps.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Even searing: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; sear in batches if necessary.
• Smooth sauce: Stir constantly while adding cream cheese to prevent clumps.
• Broil carefully: Watch the cheese topping closely; it browns quickly.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store baked chicken and sauce together for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the sauce separately for up to 2 months; chicken can be frozen pre-baked, then thawed and baked fresh.
• Reheating: Thaw frozen chicken overnight and bake in the oven to maintain texture.

Expanded Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a perfect balance of comfort food and elegance. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and optional cheesy topping make it a versatile dish for any occasion. Easy enough for a weekday meal yet impressive enough for guests, it’s destined to become a staple in your home-cooking repertoire.

Try this recipe, experiment with the variations, and don’t forget to share your delicious results. With Baked Cream Cheese Chicken on your menu, weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more exciting!

Print