Cream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, savory sauce that’s easy to prepare and bakes to perfection. It’s a simple way to elevate your chicken dinner with minimal effort.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Step 5: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Step 6: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over them.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the seasoning.
• Swap out Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar for a different cheesy twist.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or over cooked pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much after cooling, stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

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 thawed chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and searing.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated. When ready to serve, bake it as directed until heated through and the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature.

Cream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 59 reviews

A creamy and flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts smothered in a rich cream cheese and Parmesan sauce, seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs. Perfectly seared before baking to lock in the juices and topped with fresh parsley for a delightful meal.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
2. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to build a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown, which helps to lock in moisture and adds flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Make Cream Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer the sauce gently for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Assemble and Bake: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving your delicious cream cheese chicken bake.

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer longer but avoid boiling.
• Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer sauce, but low-fat cream cheese can be substituted to reduce calories.
• Fresh herbs such as thyme or basil can be added along with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Keywords: Cream cheese chicken bake, baked chicken breasts, creamy chicken recipe, Parmesan chicken, easy chicken dinner