Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a cozy, indulgent meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Tender chicken breasts are covered in a rich, creamy blend of cream cheese, garlic, chives, and paprika, making each bite a delicious mix of flavors and textures. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the comforting Sunday dinners I used to share with my family. It’s an easy-to-make dish with simple ingredients, yet it delivers big on taste, making it a go-to in my household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish preparing the chicken.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped chives, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula or hand mixer to create a smooth, well-combined mixture. The garlic and chives add depth, while the paprika brings a subtle warmth and beautiful color.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts in the greased baking dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Use a spatula to spread the cream cheese mixture generously over each chicken breast. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful as it bakes.
- Add the Chicken Broth: Pour the chicken broth around the chicken. This helps keep the meat juicy and adds extra flavor to the dish.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the top to help create a slightly crispy, golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), and the juices should run clear.
- Optional Cheddar Topping: If you’re adding cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking for a bubbly, golden crust.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for a fresh twist. For some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add Vegetables: For a one-pan meal, add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini around the chicken. They’ll cook perfectly in the chicken broth.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Parmesan, or your favorite cheese blend for a new flavor combination.
- Lighten It Up: Use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the olive oil to create a lighter version of this dish.
- Whole Chicken: Want to use a whole chicken instead? Cut it into pieces and adjust the baking time to ensure everything cooks evenly.