Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This baked cream cheese chicken is a simple yet impressive dinner that comes together quickly for busy weeknights. It blends creamy tangy flavors with tender chicken breasts, making it a comforting dish the whole family will enjoy.

I discovered this recipe when I wanted something cozy but didn’t want to fuss over complicated steps. It’s become one of my go-tos when I need dinner fast but still want something satisfying.

Ingredients

• Four boneless skinless chicken breasts: these cook evenly and soak up the cream cheese sauce
• One tablespoon olive oil: for searing choose extra virgin for better flavor
• One clove garlic minced: freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with bright aroma
• Half a cup chicken broth: adds savory depth and thins the cream cheese into a sauce
• Eight ounces cream cheese softened: the star ingredient making the sauce creamy and luscious use full fat for best texture
• One tablespoon fresh chives chopped: adds subtle oniony freshness choose vibrant green stems
• One teaspoon paprika: provides mild smoky warmth and color
• Salt and freshly ground pepper: season and enhance all flavors
• Half a cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese optional: topping that browns beautifully and adds richness
• Fresh parsley optional: garnish for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness

Instructions

Build the Chicken Prepare your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9 by 13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray:

This prevents sticking and helps with cleanup. Season chicken breasts on both sides liberally with salt pepper and paprika.

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and let them sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and repeat on the other side. Searing locks in juices and puts a flavorful crust on the chicken. Remove and set aside.

Make the Cream Sauce:

In the same skillet add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the chicken broth and cook for 1 to 2 minutes allowing it to reduce and concentrate flavor. Lower the heat and add softened cream cheese stirring continuously until smooth and well combined. Mix in the chopped fresh chives then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake:

Arrange the seared chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream cheese sauce over them making sure the chicken is well coated. If using, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top evenly. Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.

Finish Under the Broiler:

If you added cheddar cheese then switch your oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes just until the cheese on top bubbles and turns a golden brown. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Rest and Serve:

Let the chicken rest in the dish for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps redistribute the juices keeping the meat tender. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm with your favorite sides.

Cream cheese is my secret weapon here it makes the dish feel indulgent but doesn’t require complicated steps or ingredients. This recipe always reminds me of cozy dinners at home when I want something that tastes special but still comes together without effort.

Storage Tips

This dish stores very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist. The sauce may firm up when chilled but loosens nicely when warmed.

Ingredient Swaps

If you want to lighten it up swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt but add it after baking to avoid curdling. You can also substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat which stays juicy longer. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can replace chives for different fresh notes.

Serving Ideas

Serve baked cream cheese chicken over rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables are fresh accompaniments. Garlic bread on the side is a welcome extra for soaking the sauce.

This recipe balances ease and flavor perfectly making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Searing the chicken breasts first seals in the juices, then baking them covered with the creamy mixture helps maintain moisture throughout cooking.

→ Can I use other herbs besides chives?

Yes, fresh parsley or thyme also complement the creamy sauce well and add different herbal notes.

→ What is the purpose of broiling at the end?

Broiling briefly browns the optional cheddar topping, creating a flavorful and appealing golden crust.

→ Is it necessary to use chicken broth in the sauce?

The broth adds depth and helps thin the cream cheese for a smooth sauce that evenly coats the chicken.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the chicken with the cream cheese mixture, cover, and refrigerate before baking to save time later.