If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that is both creamy and comforting, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a perfect choice. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce, infused with garlic, herbs, and a hint of tanginess from lemon juice. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet elegant enough to serve to guests. Paired with vegetables or a side of pasta, rice, or crusty bread, it’s a versatile meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for this delicious baked chicken dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Cooking spray or extra oil for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, onion powder, salt, and chopped parsley or chives.
- Mix Well: Use a hand mixer or a spoon to mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. The mixture should be thick and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully coated. The mixture will keep the chicken moist while baking.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil or Butter: Drizzle the chicken with a bit of olive oil or melted butter to help with browning and add a rich flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Check for Doneness: To check if the chicken is done, cut into the thickest part of the breast to make sure there is no pink and the juices run clear.
- Broil for Extra Browning: For a golden, bubbly top, switch the oven to broil mode for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or chives for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the baked cream cheese chicken with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, steamed rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Pair with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, but the chicken may not stay as crispy.
Helpful Notes:
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps and make it easier to spread over the chicken.
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes to the baking dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to swap out the mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Giada De Laurentiis: Recommends using freshly grated Parmesan for a more intense and fresh flavor.
- Ina Garten: Suggests marinating the chicken in lemon juice and olive oil for 30 minutes before baking for an added depth of flavor.
- Jamie Oliver: Advises serving this dish with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the baking time to ensure the thighs are cooked through (usually around 35-40 minutes). - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese mixture and assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. - Can I freeze this dish?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Bake the chicken as directed, cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven. - What sides go well with baked cream cheese chicken?
Great sides include steamed or roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, pasta, or a simple side salad. - Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat or reduced-fat cream cheese works well without significantly affecting the flavor or texture. - How can I add a spicy kick?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture for some heat. - How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Coating the chicken in the cream cheese mixture helps keep it moist, but be careful not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese, yogurt, and shredded cheese alternatives to make this dish suitable for a dairy-free diet. - Can I add herbs to the cream cheese mixture?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary will add a wonderful aroma and flavor. - How can I make the dish gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free, but double-check all ingredient labels, especially for any pre-shredded cheeses, to ensure they are free from gluten-containing additives.
Conclusion:
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its rich, cheesy topping and juicy chicken breasts, this meal offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends, and make every dinner special!
