Name: Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 clove garlic (minced); 1/2 cup chicken broth; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped); 1 tsp paprika; to taste Salt and pepper; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping) (Optional topping); 1 sprig Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) (Optional garnish)

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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the savory goodness of chicken with the rich creaminess of cheese. This comforting meal works perfectly for family dinners or special gatherings, and the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eager to dig in. With its luscious sauce and tender chicken, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate!

As you prepare this dish, the blend of flavors will create a satisfying experience for everyone at the table. The creamy sauce mixed with fresh chives adds a tantalizing freshness that complements the chicken beautifully. In this article, you’ll discover how to whip up this delicious recipe, serving tips, and variations to keep things exciting. Let’s dive into the details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.
Ease of Preparation: Quick to make, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and essential nutrients from herbs and cheese.
Versatility: Pairs well with various sides, making it adaptable to your taste.
Presentation: Looks stunning on the plate, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying at home.

You’ll find that this recipe is not just tasty, but also incredibly inviting!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 55-60 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/2 cup chicken broth
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 tbsp fresh chives (chopped)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper (to taste)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How To Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly. Add softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Add fresh chives and season with salt and pepper.

Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over them. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using cheese, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to brown the topping. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the chicken in the baking dish for a rustic look or plate individually for a refined touch.
Accompaniments: Pair with steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad to balance flavors.
Portions: Cut the chicken into slices to make it easy to serve and share.
Beverage Pairing: A chilled white wine or sparkling water can complement the rich tastes beautifully.

You’re all set for a wonderful dining experience!

Additional Tips

For even more flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or some spices to the cream cheese mixture.
Feel free to customize with other herbs like thyme or basil for a different taste.
Serve with bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

Recipe Variations

Italian Style: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and basil for an Italian twist.
Mexican Flair: Add jalapeños and cumin for a spicy version, topped with avocado.
Herb-Infused: Use different herbs like dill or oregano for a unique flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Special Equipment

Skillet
Baking dish
Cooking spray or olive oil
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking.

2. Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein and contains wholesome ingredients. You can adjust the cheese for a lighter version.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and store it in the fridge a day in advance. Just bake when ready.

4. Can I customize this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor.

5. What other cooking methods work?
You can also grill the chicken or use a slow cooker for different texture and flavor variations.

Conclusion

Enjoying Baked Cream Cheese Chicken means savoring creamy, flavorful goodness that everyone will love. Its blend of taste and simplicity makes it an ideal dish for any occasion—from cozy family meals to festive gatherings. So go ahead, try this recipe soon and impress your loved ones with your culinary skills!
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