Cream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a rich and comforting dish perfect for a satisfying family meal. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s easy to prepare and bakes to golden perfection. It’s a delicious way to elevate simple ingredients into a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Step 2: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden color. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste the sauce, adjusting seasoning if needed. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Step 6: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over them.
- Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Step 8: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a bit of extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
- If you prefer, substitute fresh garlic minced into the sauce for garlic powder to deepen the flavor.
- Try topping the dish with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before baking for a melty crust.
- Serve this bake with steamed vegetables or a side of rice for a complete meal.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to preserve the creamy texture of the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Cooking from frozen may result in uneven doneness.
What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, rice, or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
PrintCream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe
This creamy and flavorful Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender chicken breasts baked in a rich cream cheese and Parmesan sauce infused with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe combines seared chicken with a luscious sauce baked to perfection, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prepare for baking the chicken and sauce together.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse them with flavor.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a golden crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to retain juices.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Bake the chicken with sauce: Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken, making sure they are well coated. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, flavorful comfort food.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For an extra creamy sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream if desired.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a side of rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese beforehand for easier mixing and smooth sauce consistency.
Keywords: Cream Cheese Chicken, Baked Chicken, Creamy Chicken Bake, Parmesan Chicken, Easy Dinner
