Cream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce. It’s simple to prepare yet feels indulgent, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

The image shows three pieces of cooked chicken breast in a shallow white bowl. Each chicken piece has a golden-brown crust on top with some spots darker than others, showing a nice sear. The chicken pieces are covered with a creamy light beige sauce that pools in the bowl. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled on top of the chicken and scattered in the sauce around them. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, whisk together chicken broth and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  5. Step 5: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Step 6: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over the top.
  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 freshly chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • For a keto-friendly meal, use full-fat cream cheese and serve with cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
  • Try reduced-fat cream cheese and pair with steamed vegetables for a lighter version.
  • Sear the chicken well to develop a golden crust that adds extra flavor.
  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftover Cream Cheese Chicken Bake 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. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but holds up well for quick next-day meals.

How to Serve

The image shows three pieces of browned chicken breasts sitting in a creamy, light yellow sauce inside a white bowl. The chicken pieces have a slightly crispy, golden-brown top layer with visible grill marks and are sprinkled with small green herb flakes. The creamy sauce surrounds the chicken, coating the bottom of the bowl and adding a glossy texture. The white bowl rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the dish's warm and fresh appeal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Dairy-free substitutes for cream cheese and Parmesan can be used, but keep in mind the flavor and texture will differ from the original. Look for vegan cream cheese alternatives designed for cooking.

Print
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Cream Cheese Chicken Bake Recipe


  • Author: Lily
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a delicious and comforting dish featuring tender seared chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream cheese, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make baked entrée combines a velvety, flavorful sauce with perfectly cooked chicken, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy.


Ingredients

Scale

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

Cream Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to build the base flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds texture. Remove the seared chicken and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, then season to taste. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened to concentrate the flavors.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over them. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is cooked through and tender.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors.

Notes

  • To make this dish keto-friendly, use full-fat cream cheese and serve with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or sautéed greens.
  • For a low-calorie option, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and pair with steamed vegetables.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Feel free to customize the seasoning with additional herbs like thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: cream cheese chicken, baked chicken recipe, creamy chicken bake, easy chicken dinner, comforting chicken dish

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