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 olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. (The chicken doesn’t need to cook through yet—just develop a 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, letting it 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, making sure each piece is well-coated.
• If desired, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy layer.

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 cheddar, broil the dish for the last 2–3 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly topping.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Garnish the baked chicken with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve warm with your favorite side dishes and enjoy this creamy, comforting meal.