Baked Cream Cheese Chicken – Easy Recipe (4 Ingredients)

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the ultimate weeknight comfort food. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and then smothered in a rich, creamy garlic cream cheese sauce. This dish offers the perfect balance of savory and creamy, making it an ideal family dinner. With just 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking, this easy recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights when you want something comforting yet simple.

Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a great choice for those who love comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The creamy sauce made with cream cheese is what really sets this dish apart, creating a silky texture that coats the chicken perfectly. The best part? This recipe requires very little effort but results in a meal that feels gourmet. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a small crowd, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and serves as the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
• Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, giving it a golden-brown color and extra flavor.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant depth to the sauce.
• Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful base for the sauce and helps to keep the dish from feeling too heavy.
• Cream cheese: The star of the sauce, giving it its creamy and luxurious texture.
• Chives: Adds a mild onion flavor and fresh color to the dish.
• Paprika: Gives the chicken a slight warmth and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
• Sharp cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a cheesy, golden crust on top for extra indulgence.
• Parsley (optional): Used as a garnish for added freshness and visual appeal.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to mix things up or need substitutions for dietary preferences, here are a few options:

• Chicken thighs: If you prefer a juicier cut of meat, chicken thighs are an excellent alternative.
• Bacon: For an extra smoky flavor, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the chicken before baking.
• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the garlic and cream cheese sauce for an earthy twist.
• Dairy-free cream cheese: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
• Spicy variations: For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken will not be cooked through yet, but that’s fine. Set the chicken aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
6. Add the cream cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add chives, and taste for seasoning.
7. Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce over them.
8. If desired, top with shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
10. If you want a golden, bubbly cheese top, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes.
11. Let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or additional chives for a fresh touch.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcook the chicken: For juicy results, always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust the sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or a splash of milk to thin it out.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply refrigerate it and bake when you’re ready.
• Customize the flavor: Add Dijon mustard, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for extra flair.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Mashed potatoes: The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Roasted broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli contrasts beautifully with the rich chicken.
• Spinach salad: A light salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty chicken.
• Crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Variations: For a smoky touch, try adding crispy bacon or experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor profile.

The Comfort of Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken not only satisfies your cravings for comfort food but also gives you the opportunity to experiment with different ingredients. Whether you add bacon, mushrooms, or a bit of spice, the creamy sauce is versatile enough to make this dish uniquely yours. Best of all, it’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights when you still want to treat yourself to something delicious.

Conclusion

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting, rich dish. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you add a bit of cheese on top, throw in some bacon for extra flavor, or keep it simple with just the creamy garlic sauce, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that feels gourmet but requires little effort. Best of all, the leftovers are just as good—if not better—than the first serving!

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