Why Make This Recipe
Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a delicious and comforting meal that is easy to prepare. It combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy topping, making it a favorite for busy weekdays or family dinners. The recipe is simple and requires only a few ingredients that you likely have on hand. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or serving it with mashed potatoes.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Cream cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Shredded cheese (e.g., cheddar or mozzarella)
- Optional: Veggies (like broccoli or bell peppers)
- Optional: Mashed potatoes for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the cream cheese mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes.
How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Bake hot from the oven. Pair it with steamed veggies like broccoli or colorful bell peppers for added nutrition. If you prefer, you can serve it with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious flavors. This meal is great for any occasion, whether a quiet family dinner or a gathering with friends.
How to Store Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
To store leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Bake, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing.
- Add herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
- If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
- You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. Alternatively, swap out the shredded cheese for a different type, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them first for even cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works well, but it may not be as creamy as the regular version.
Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken breasts Boneless and skinless preferred
- 8 oz Cream cheese Softened for easy mixing
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste
- 1 cup Shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella recommended
Optional Ingredients
- 2 cups Veggies Such as broccoli or bell peppers
- 4 servings Mashed potatoes For serving, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture over the top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the cream cheese mixture.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve with a side of veggies or mashed potatoes.
