Baked cream cheese chicken served with vegetables on a plate.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that your whole family will love. The creamy cheese topping adds flavor and moisture to the chicken, making each bite scrumptious. It’s a simple dish you can prepare for a busy weeknight dinner or even for entertaining guests. With common ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.

how to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until well blended. Set aside.
  3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  4. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Remove the skillet from heat. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

how to serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is great served with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The creamy sauce pairs nicely with many sides, making it a versatile dish for any meal.

how to store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

  • For extra flavor, try adding some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the cream cheese mixture.
  • If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
  • Make sure the chicken breasts are of even thickness. This helps them cook evenly.

variation (if any)

You can change the recipe by using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to create a different flavor profile. You can also swap out the Italian seasoning for ranch seasoning or taco seasoning for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they might take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cream cheese topping in advance, store them separately in the fridge, and assemble the dish when you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
This dish pairs nicely with pasta, rice, or a variety of vegetables. You can also serve a fresh green salad to add some crunch.