Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich, savory, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a creamy garlic-herb spread and finished with a crispy, golden parmesan crust, it’s a no-fuss meal the whole family will love. Best of all, it comes together in just 40 minutes with simple pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep time and no complicated steps.
  • Flavor-Packed: Cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and parmesan create an irresistible topping.
  • Versatile: Pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this creamy, cheesy chicken.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise or sour cream
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  3. Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish.
  4. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise (or sour cream), garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, ¼ cup grated parmesan, and mozzarella. Mix until smooth.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, remaining ¼ cup parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
  7. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the chicken.
  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
  9. Optional: For a crispier topping, broil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  11. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Roasted Vegetables: Try it with roasted broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy topping pairs perfectly with buttery mashed potatoes.
  • Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or penne with a light drizzle of olive oil or garlic butter.

Tips for Success

  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier mixing.
  • Don’t skip patting the chicken dry—it helps the seasoning stick and prevents sogginess.
  • If using extra-large chicken breasts, consider slicing them horizontally for more even cooking.
  • The broiler step adds a beautiful golden crust—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • To Reheat: Bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in 30-second intervals.

Recipe Details

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Course: Dinner
  • Cuisine: American
  • Keywords: Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, Creamy Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner

More Easy Chicken Dinners

Make this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken once, and it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Creamy, crispy, and comforting—it’s everything a weeknight meal should be.

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