Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Creamy cheesy and incredibly comforting this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of weeknight dinner that makes everyone at the table happy The combo of tender chicken and a rich melty topping comes together with just a handful of kitchen basics but tastes like something special

When I first made this on a rainy Sunday I could hardly believe how fast everyone asked for seconds Even the pickiest eaters wiped their plates clean

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show Look for plump and evenly sized pieces for even cooking
• Cream cheese softened: Brings creamy tangy texture Full fat works best for richness
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey melt Select whole milk mozzarella for best stretch
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Salty nutty depth Freshly grated beats prepackaged for flavor
• Garlic powder: Rounds out the savory notes Choose a fresh smelling powder
• Onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness Check the expiration date for potency
• Dried Italian seasoning: Infuses herby aroma Blend of basil oregano and thyme
• Salt: Brings all flavors together Use kosher salt for even seasoning
• Black pepper: A peppery punch Fresh cracked is always best
• Chopped fresh parsley: Optional but brightens up the finished dish Go for tender leafy sprigs
• Olive oil: For searing Opt for extra virgin for flavor

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it is ready when you finish prepping This ensures the chicken bakes evenly and the cheese topping melts perfectly

Make the Cream Cheese Spread:

In a medium bowl thoroughly mix softened cream cheese shredded mozzarella grated Parmesan garlic powder onion powder and Italian seasoning Make sure to break up any lumps so the spread is completely smooth This will melt evenly on the chicken

Season and Prepare Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels for best sear and season both sides evenly with salt and black pepper Dry chicken helps create a flavorful golden crust

Sear the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high Place chicken breasts in the hot oil Sear each side for about three to four minutes until deeply golden This step locks in juices

Spread the Cheese Mixture:

Take the skillet off the heat Use a spoon or spatula to evenly coat each chicken breast with the cream cheese spread Press gently so the topping sticks well to each piece

Bake the Chicken:

Move the skillet to the preheated oven and bake about twenty to twenty five minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cheesy layer is bubbly and golden brown Insert a thermometer into the thickest part to check for doneness at one sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Rest and Finish:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes so the juices redistribute Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving if using This makes the dish beautiful and adds a hint of freshness

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One of my favorite parts of this dish is the herby cheese topping My kids always try to claim the cheesiest piece so I started making extra mixture just to satisfy them

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They will keep well for up to three days When reheating add a splash of water and cover with foil to keep things moist You can also freeze cooked chicken individually but the cheese layer may lose a little texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap mozzarella with mild cheddar provolone or gouda for a fun twist Cream cheese can be replaced with Neufchatel for a slightly lighter option or try adding chopped spinach into the cheese mixture for a boost of color and nutrients

Serving Suggestions

This chicken is delicious served with roasted seasonal veggies or a simple green salad It is also great over pasta or even tucked into a soft toasted roll for an indulgent sandwich

Cultural and Historical Context

Cream cheese chicken bakes are classic comfort food in many American households Creamy cheese and chicken have paired together in home kitchens for decades often evolving with whatever is on hand Some versions even include bacon or fresh tomatoes

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the chicken moist?

Searing the chicken first helps seal in juices. The creamy cheese topping also locks in moisture during baking.

→ Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but cheddar or gouda work well for variety in flavor and meltability.

→ Is it possible to prepare the topping ahead?

Absolutely. Mix the cheese blend a day in advance and store it refrigerated until you're ready to assemble.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad make excellent accompaniments to balance the creamy main.

→ Can it be made gluten-free?

Yes, ensure your cheese and seasonings are gluten-free and avoid optional breading for a gluten-free meal.

→ How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when juices run clear and a thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.