Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, as it is both simple to make and delicious! With minimal effort, you can impress your family or guests with this flavorful meal. The cream cheese adds a lovely texture and taste that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

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:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. 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.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

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How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken warm straight from the oven. This dish pairs well with various sides, such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice over the top before serving can enhance the flavors.

How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

To store leftovers, let the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist during reheating.

Tips to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

• Make sure your cream cheese is softened to mix easily into the sauce.
• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite seasoning before cooking.
• If you like a bit of heat, you can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture.
• Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness in the sauce.

Variation

You can easily change this recipe by adding vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to the cream cheese mixture. For a different protein, try using pork chops or turkey cutlets instead of chicken. You can also use different types of cheese for the topping, like mozzarella or pepper jack.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.
2. How can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can prepare the chicken and the cream cheese mixture ahead of time. Just assemble the dish without baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it per the instructions.
3. What sides go well with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken? This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables. A simple garden salad also complements it nicely.