Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

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Golden, juicy, and bubbling with cheesy goodness—Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of comforting dinner that makes you want seconds (and maybe thirds). Imagine tender chicken breasts oven-baked in a rich, creamy blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then finished with a lightly golden crust. It’s simple yet indulgent, easy enough for a weekday dinner but worthy of guests at your table.

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a crisp green salad. The creamy sauce that forms while baking is spoon-worthy, begging to be mopped up with warm bread or poured over rice. If you’re looking for easy dinner ideas that don’t skimp on flavor, this baked cream cheese chicken is calling your name.

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Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for moisture)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray to prevent sticking. Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels—this helps them bake evenly and soak up the flavors better.

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Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.

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Step 3: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Lay the chicken breasts flat in the prepared baking dish. If they are particularly thick, you can pound them to an even thickness or slice them in half horizontally. Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over each piece of chicken, spreading it to fully cover the tops. If using chicken broth, pour it into the bottom of the dish for added moisture and flavor.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the tops are lightly golden. For an extra golden finish, switch the oven to broil during the last 2–3 minutes—but watch carefully to prevent burning.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes—don’t forget to spoon some of that creamy sauce over everything!

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but it will remain creamy when reheated.
• Freeze: For longer storage, wrap each piece individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Sugar: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Nutrition values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully. Just adjust baking time slightly as they may cook faster or slower depending on size.

2. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely. Broccoli florets, baby spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be added around the chicken before baking for a one-pan meal.

3. Is there a dairy-free alternative to cream cheese?

Yes, you can use plant-based cream cheese alternatives made from cashews or almonds for a dairy-free version.

4. How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy kick.

5. Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking and store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

6. What’s the best side dish to pair with it?

Mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, roasted veggies, or even a crisp Caesar salad go perfectly with this creamy chicken.

7. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, though it may result in a slightly less creamy texture. Full-fat cream cheese offers the richest flavor and consistency.

8. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all your seasonings and broth are certified gluten-free, the dish is naturally gluten-free.

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