Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of dish that dances on your taste buds and wafts irresistible aromas through your kitchen. Picture this: succulent chicken, smothered in rich, creamy goodness, bubbling away in the oven as it transforms into a cheesy delight. The moment you pull it out, it’s like a warm hug for your entire family, and trust me, they’ll be begging for seconds.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs:
- What ingredients do I need for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
- How long does it take to cook Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
- Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken ahead of time?
- What sides pair well with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
- Conclusion for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken:
- 📖 Recipe Card
Now imagine the scene: It’s a chilly evening, and you’ve had a long day at work. You’re not just hungry; you’re starving! As you slice into that golden-brown chicken and watch the cream cheese ooze out like a delicious waterfall, you know you’ve hit the jackpot. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing guests at dinner parties, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is here to save the day.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This baked cream cheese chicken offers an easy preparation process that even novice cooks can master
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, with every bite bursting with creaminess
- Its visual appeal makes it perfect for gatherings, and its versatility allows for endless ingredient swaps based on your pantry
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are perfect, but adjust according to your hungry crowd.
- Cream Cheese: Regular or reduced-fat cream cheese works well; it adds a luscious creaminess that’s hard to resist.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp cheddar for a bold flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: This spice gives a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the overall taste and aroma of your dish.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping everything moist.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Getting Started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your chicken. This ensures an even cook throughout, creating that mouth-watering aroma right from the start.
Prepare the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry each chicken breast before seasoning them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This step ensures that each bite has robust flavors.
Creamy Filling Time: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese with shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. It should resemble a dreamy cloud of cheesy goodness ready to embrace your chicken.
Stuffing Magic: Take a pocket knife and carefully slice into each chicken breast to create pockets. Stuff each pocket generously with that glorious cheese mixture. Don’t worry if some spills out; more flavor is always better!
Bake Away: Place stuffed chicken breasts in a greased baking dish and pour chicken broth around them. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!
Unveiling Deliciousness: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown on top. This step creates that delightful crispy texture everyone loves.
Serve It Up: Let the chicken rest for about five minutes before cutting into it—this allows all those cheesy flavors to settle nicely inside! Serve warm alongside veggies or rice for a complete meal.
And there you have it! A beautiful platter of Baked Cream Cheese Chicken ready to dazzle anyone lucky enough to sit at your table. Enjoy every creamy bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing Greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that mouthwatering Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, start by searing your chicken until golden brown. While that happens, prepare your favorite side dish, like rice or veggies, then mix up the creamy sauce for a seamless cooking experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or add garlic powder if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to elevate this dish to culinary greatness and impress your guests.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring that your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken remains creamy and delightful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always ensure your chicken is fully cooked by using a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F
- Don’t skip searing; that extra flavor boost is essential!
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender
Sharing this recipe with friends brought me unexpected applause; who knew my cooking could be such a crowd-pleaser? It was a hit during our family dinner, and I’ll never forget their amazed faces when they took their first bite!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
To create a delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, gather the following ingredients: chicken breasts, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also add shredded cheese for extra flavor. Ensure you choose fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and taste. This dish is versatile and allows you to customize it with additional vegetables or spices based on your preferences.
How long does it take to cook Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken typically takes about 25-30 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C). Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. For optimal results, check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer before serving, ensuring that it’s juicy and tender.
Can I make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Baked Cream Cheese Chicken ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish in advance and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking. If you prefer freezing it, wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What sides pair well with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a light meal. For something heartier, mashed potatoes or rice pilaf complement the creamy flavors well. Roasted asparagus or broccoli also make excellent choices, adding color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the richness of the dish.
Conclusion for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken:
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is an easy yet flavorful dish that brings comfort to any meal. With simple ingredients like chicken breasts and cream cheese, you can create a delightful dinner option. Remember to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices for added flair. Whether you’re preparing this recipe ahead of time or serving it fresh from the oven, it’s sure to impress your family and friends alike. Enjoy this creamy delight on any occasion!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy filling that melts in your mouth. As it bakes, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. Serve it alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying feast that will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse and pat dry each chicken breast. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar until smooth.
- Carefully slice pockets into each chicken breast and stuff them with the cheese mixture.
- Place stuffed breasts in a greased baking dish and pour chicken broth around them. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
