why make this recipe
This baked cream cheese chicken is simple and creamy. It uses few ingredients and makes a rich sauce. It cooks in one dish and fits family meals or a quick dinner.
introduction
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is tender chicken with a smooth cream cheese sauce. You sear the chicken, make the sauce in the same pan, then bake. The result is a mild, creamy dish many people like.
how to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Season and sear the chicken to lock in flavor.
- Make the sauce in the skillet with garlic, broth, and cream cheese until smooth.
- Put the seared chicken in a baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce over it.
- Bake until the chicken is fully cooked. Add cheese on top and broil a bit if you want a brown top.
- Garnish and serve warm.
Ingredients :
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over them. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the topping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
how to serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta to soak up the sauce. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for color and freshness. Cut the chicken and spoon sauce over each plate.
how to store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Cool to room temperature, then put in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
tips to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Pound the chicken to even thickness for even cooking.
- Use room-temperature cream cheese so it melts smooth.
- Sear the chicken well for better flavor.
- Check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.
- Add more broth if you want a thinner sauce.
- Fresh chives or parsley brightens the flavor.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for more flavor.
- Stir in spinach for extra greens.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a milder topping.
- Use a mix of cream cheese and sour cream for tang.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes. Bone-in or boneless thighs work well. Adjust bake time until cooked through.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: You can make the sauce a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Warm it gently before pouring over chicken.
Q: Is there a dairy-free version?
A: You can try a dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free cheese, but texture and taste will change.
Q: Do I have to sear the chicken first?
A: Searing adds flavor but you can skip it. The cook time may change and the top may not brown as much.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Conclusion
For a simple baked chicken with a creamy sauce, this recipe is an easy pick and works well for weeknight dinners. For a similar version with step-by-step photos, see Baked Cream Cheese Chicken – Taste Of Recipe. If you want a richer, cheesy bake idea, check Million Dollar Chicken Bake · Easy Family Recipes for inspiration. For another easy cream cheese chicken take, try Easy Cream Cheese Chicken – Family Food on the Table.
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
- 1 tsp paprika
- to taste Salt
- to taste pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- to taste fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over them.
- Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Cooking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If using cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the topping.
Serving
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
