When you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and satisfying dinner idea, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the perfect recipe to try. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a rich and creamy sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and chicken broth. It’s an irresistible recipe that works for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have, this dish is a lifesaver when you need something hearty yet easy to make.
Why You’ll Love Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Rich and Flavorful: The cream cheese sauce is infused with garlic, chives, and paprika, making every bite a delight.
- Simple Ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find items—this dish relies on kitchen staples.
- Versatile Pairing Options: Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- Easy Prep and Cleanup: Everything comes together quickly, and baking means less time spent cleaning up.
Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Core Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Chicken broth | ½ cup |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz |
| Fresh chives (chopped) | 1 tbsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) | ½ cup |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking it through yet—just giving it a nice crust.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce
- Using the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the chopped chives and season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Dish
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the cream cheese sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- If desired, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Bake the Chicken
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If you added cheese, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden-brown topping.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the baked chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve warm with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy this comforting meal.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Juicy Chicken Every Time
Searing the chicken locks in moisture, and baking it in the creamy sauce ensures it stays tender and flavorful.
2. Rich, Creamy Sauce
The combination of cream cheese, garlic, and chicken broth creates a smooth, luscious sauce that’s packed with flavor.
3. Flexible Ingredients
You can easily customize the recipe with additional spices, cheeses, or even vegetables.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
Tips for the Best Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
1. Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese
- Softened cream cheese blends more easily, ensuring a smooth sauce without lumps.
2. Customize the Spices
- Swap paprika for smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne for a hint of heat.
3. Add Vegetables
- Include mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli in the baking dish for added nutrients and flavor.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer
- Check that the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked without overbaking.
Variations to Try
1. Herb-Infused Version
- Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the cream cheese sauce for an earthy flavor.
2. Low-Carb Option
- Pair this dish with cauliflower rice or zoodles to keep it low-carb.
3. Cheesy Upgrade
- Mix shredded mozzarella or Parmesan into the cream cheese sauce for a cheesier dish.
4. Lemon Garlic Twist
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Rice or Grains: Serve the chicken over steamed rice, quinoa, or couscous to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Pair with buttery mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the richness of the chicken.
- Pasta: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce for a delicious, creamy side.
FAQ: Your Questions About Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Answered
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Let the chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and tend to be even juicier. Adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and skip the cheddar topping to make it dairy-free.
6. What can I substitute for chives?
Green onions or parsley can be used as a substitute for chives if needed.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, offering a creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or as part of a special dinner, it’s a recipe that always impresses.
Ready to make this delicious dish? Grab your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a homemade meal that rivals restaurant-quality comfort food. Share your creation with friends and family and inspire them to try it too!
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken: A Comforting and Creamy Dinner Idea
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Bright, tangy lemons meet creamy, luscious layers of cream cheese and buttery cake crumble in this Lemon Cream Cheese Dump Cake. It’s the perfect no-fuss dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet weeknight treat. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- Yellow cake mix (or lemon cake mix) – 1 box
- Unsalted butter (melted) – ½ cup
- Lemon pie filling – 1 can (21 oz)
- Cream cheese (softened) – 8 oz
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup
- Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
- Egg – 1
- Lemon zest – Zest of 1 lemon
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal of the cake.
2. Prepare the Bottom Cake Layer
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the melted butter.
- Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Spread ⅔ of the cake mixture evenly over the bottom of the greased baking dish. Press gently to form a solid base.
3. Add the Lemon Filling
- Spread the lemon pie filling evenly over the cake layer. Make sure to distribute it well for a tangy punch in every bite.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth and creamy.
- Spoon or spread this mixture over the lemon pie filling.
5. Add the Crumb Topping
- Sprinkle the remaining cake mix mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Leave it slightly uneven to give the cake a rustic look.
6. Bake the Cake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cream cheese layer is set.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the middle isn’t overly jiggly.
7. Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness or serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Use Fresh Zest: Fresh lemon zest intensifies the citrus flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cake to ensure the cream cheese stays creamy.
- Extra Lemony: Use lemon cake mix instead of yellow cake mix for more lemon flavor.
- Crunchy Toppings: Add sliced almonds or crushed graham crackers for a delightful crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
