Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

There’s something undeniably soothing about a home-cooked chicken dish wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce. Baked Cream Cheese Chicken embodies that comfort food ideal, marrying the juicy, tender texture of baked chicken breasts with the rich, velvety decadence of cream cheese-infused sauce. This dish is perfect for those evenings when you want a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t require complicated prep or exotic ingredients.

Unlike heavy cream-based recipes that can sometimes feel overwhelming, cream cheese adds body and smoothness without making the sauce overly runny. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of cream cheese complements the mild chicken beautifully, and when paired with garlic, herbs, and a touch of seasoning, the result is a dish that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Baking the chicken allows the flavors to meld gently, and the creamy topping forms a delightful crust on the surface. Served alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables, this dish satisfies on all levels — flavor, texture, and nutrition.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

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2. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil, butter, or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning and sauce stick better and promotes even browning.

2. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

3. Optional: If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness (about ¾ inch) for quicker, more even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

1. In a mixing bowl, combine:

   • 8 oz softened cream cheese

   • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (if using)

   • 2 cloves minced garlic

   • 1 teaspoon onion powder

   • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

   • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

2. Whisk or stir vigorously until smooth and well combined.

3. If the mixture feels too thick, whisk in up to ¼ cup of chicken broth or white wine for a looser consistency. This will also add flavor and help keep the chicken moist during baking.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in the prepared baking dish.

2. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts using a spoon or spatula. Don’t be shy—it’s the star of the dish!

3. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the cream cheese layer. This will form a delicious golden crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes.

2. After about 20 minutes, check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The safe temperature for cooked chicken breast is 165°F (74°C).

3. If you want a more browned and bubbly top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

1. Remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step 7: Serve

1. Serve your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken with complementary sides such as steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

2. Spoon any remaining creamy sauce from the dish over the chicken for extra indulgence.