Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful cream cheese mixture, topped with herbs and spices, and baked to perfection. The result is a creamy, savory dish that’s simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I absolutely love this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken because it’s a one-pan dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor. The cream cheese keeps the chicken moist and adds a rich, velvety texture. Plus, it’s versatile! You can pair it with any side dish, from roasted vegetables to mashed potatoes, making it perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy cheese and tender chicken creates a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent, yet it’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon olive oil
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or cooking spray.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
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Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Using a spoon or spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
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Drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken breasts to help with browning.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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If you’d like a golden-brown top, you can broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.
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Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves about 4 people, with 1 chicken breast per person. The total time from start to finish is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Variations
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Add vegetables: You can stir in some spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
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Different cheeses: Try using a mix of mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar and Parmesan for a different twist.
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Chicken thighs: For a juicier option, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
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Spicy version: Add a bit of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover Baked Cream Cheese Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend microwaving it for 1-2 minutes or reheating it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until it’s warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. This is perfect for meal prepping or when you want to save time during the week.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before using them in this recipe, as cooking frozen chicken may result in uneven cooking. Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to swap the cheddar or Parmesan for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even goat cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Can I add a crust to the top?
Yes, you can add breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cream cheese mixture before baking for a crispy, golden crust. Just sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs and a little melted butter before baking.
What sides go well with this dish?
This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad. You can even serve it with pasta for a more hearty meal.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish that’s incredibly easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that feels indulgent yet is perfect for a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will quickly become a favorite!
