How to Make the 1 first Best Baked Cream Cheese Chicken at Home

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy topping, resulting in a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress. This recipe features succulent chicken enveloped in a luscious blend of cream cheese, herbs, and seasonings, then baked to perfection with a golden, crispy crust. The harmonious marriage of flavors and textures makes it a versatile choice, suitable for both busy weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish offers a straightforward approach to creating a memorable and satisfying meal.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

chef Laya

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a flavorful cream cheese mixture, topped with crispy bacon and melted cheese. Seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and paprika, the chicken is first seared for extra flavor before baking to perfection. This easy, 40-minute recipe delivers a deliciously cheesy, comforting meal that pairs well with vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!

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Prepr Time 10 minutes min

Cooking Time 30 minutes min

ToTal Time 40 minutes min

Type of plate Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

kitchen American, australian

Serving 6

Ingrédients

  

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz 225g cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
• Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry, then season both sides with salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika.
• Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken breasts for 2 minutes per side until lightly golden (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
• Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, minced garlic, shredded mozzarella, and cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
• Assemble: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top.
• Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)).
• Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

This creamy, cheesy baked chicken is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad!

Keyword Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Ingredients Needed for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

In crafting the perfect Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, selecting high-quality primary ingredients is essential to achieve a flavorful and satisfying dish. Here’s a detailed look at the main components:

Chicken Breasts

• Selection: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, approximately 6 ounces each. Uniformity in size ensures even cooking. Fresh, organic chicken is preferable for the best taste and texture.
• Preparation: Gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This step promotes consistent cooking and tenderness. Dab the chicken with paper towels to ensure the seasoning sticks more effectively.

Cream Cheese

• Type: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy texture. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
• Enhancements: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives, along with minced garlic, into the cream cheese. This combination infuses the chicken with aromatic flavors.

Additional Cheeses

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the dish. Mix it into the cream cheese layer or sprinkle on top for a golden crust.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar can be added for a robust, tangy taste. It pairs well with the cream cheese mixture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Seasonings and Herbs

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic or garlic powder adds depth and a savory note to the dish.
• Paprika: A sprinkle of paprika not only imparts a subtle smokiness but also adds a vibrant color to the topping.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate herbs such as parsley, dill, and chives into the cream cheese mixture for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

• Bacon: Crispy, crumbled bacon can be mixed into the cream cheese layer or used as a topping, adding a smoky, savory element.
• Breadcrumbs: A light coating of breadcrumbs mixed with dried parsley can be sprinkled over the cheese layer to create a crispy, golden crust upon baking.

By thoughtfully selecting and preparing these primary ingredients, you’ll create a delectable Baked Cream Cheese Chicken that’s rich in flavor and sure to become a favorite at your dining table.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide of Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Properly preparing chicken breasts is essential for achieving a tender and evenly cooked Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. Here’s a detailed guide on selecting and prepping your chicken:

Selecting the Chicken Breasts

• Freshness: Choose chicken breasts that are cold to the touch and have a pinkish hue. Avoid any with a gray or translucent appearance, as these may indicate spoilage.
• Size Uniformity: Opt for breasts of similar sizes to ensure consistent cooking times.

Prepping the Chicken Breasts

1. Cleaning: Place the chicken on a clean surface. Avoid rinsing raw chicken, as it can spread bacteria.
2. Trimming: Use a sharp knife to remove any excess fat, tendons, or cartilage for a cleaner presentation and better texture.
3. Pounding to Even Thickness:
   • Setup: Place the chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or inside a resealable plastic bag.
   • Pounding Technique: Using the flat side of a meat mallet or a rolling pin, gently pound the chicken starting from the thickest part, working your way outward. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents the thinner parts from drying out.
   • Tips: Apply controlled force to avoid tearing the meat. The goal is to achieve uniformity without overly thinning the breast.

Creating the Cream Cheese Mixture

Creating a flavorful and creamy topping is essential for enhancing your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. Here’s a detailed guide on blending cream cheese with seasonings and optional ingredients to achieve a rich and delectable mixture:

Ingredients

• Cream Cheese: Use 8 ounces of softened cream cheese as the base.
• Mayonnaise: Incorporate ¼ cup of mayonnaise to add richness and a smooth texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan for a sharp, nutty flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Include 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to impart a savory depth.
• Paprika: Use ½ teaspoon of paprika for subtle smokiness and color.
• Optional Add-ins:
  • Cooked Bacon Crumbles: ½ cup for a smoky, savory element.
  • Chopped Green Onions: ¼ cup for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup for an extra layer of cheesy richness.

Instructions

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and grated Parmesan until smooth and well-blended.
3. Incorporate Seasonings: Stir in garlic powder and paprika, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
4. Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in bacon crumbles, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese, if using, to enhance flavor and texture.

This cream cheese mixture serves as a flavorful topping for the chicken breasts, creating a creamy and savory layer that complements the tender meat. Adjust the seasonings and optional add-ins to suit your taste preferences, ensuring a personalized and delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken.

Assembling Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Assembling and baking your Baked Cream Cheese Chicken properly ensures a flavorful and well-cooked dish. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfection:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Temperature: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the desired heat by the time you’re ready to bake.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish

• Selection: Choose a baking dish large enough to hold all chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping.
• Greasing: Lightly coat the bottom of the dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

3. Arrange the Chicken

• Placement: Lay the prepped chicken breasts flat in the baking dish, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.

4. Apply the Cream Cheese Mixture

• Spreading: Evenly distribute the prepared cream cheese mixture over the top of each chicken breast, using a spatula to spread it smoothly.
• Thickness: Aim for a consistent layer, approximately ¼ inch thick, to ensure balanced flavor and proper baking.

5. Add Optional Toppings

• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the cream cheese layer for extra richness.
• Breadcrumbs: For a crispy texture, lightly sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs on top. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
• Bacon Crumbles: Scatter cooked, crumbled bacon over the cheese layer to introduce a smoky, savory element.

6. Bake the Chicken

• Cooking Time: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. The exact time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
• Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating it’s fully cooked.
• Browning: If the topping hasn’t achieved a golden-brown color by the end of the cooking time, switch the oven to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes. Monitor closely to prevent burning.

7. Rest and Serve

• Resting Period: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat.
• Serving Suggestion: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and added freshness before serving.

By meticulously following these steps, you’ll create a delectable Baked Cream Cheese Chicken that’s sure to impress at any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

is baked cream cheese chicken shelf stable?

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is not shelf-stable and requires proper refrigeration to ensure safety and maintain quality. Here’s what you need to know:

Refrigeration

• Storage Duration: After baking Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Texture Considerations: Cream cheese-based sauces can thicken upon refrigeration. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.

Freezing

• Suitability: While it’s possible to freeze Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, be aware that cream cheese-based sauces may « break » or become grainy upon reheating, affecting the dish’s texture.
• Freezing Method: If you choose to freeze, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Shelf Stability

• Perishability: Due to the presence of dairy (cream cheese) and poultry, this dish is perishable and should not be left at room temperature for extended periods.
• Safety Precaution: Always refrigerate leftovers promptly to prevent bacterial growth and potential foodborne illness, if you want more information visit safr food handling

In summary, Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is not shelf-stable and requires refrigeration or freezing to maintain its safety and quality.

what happens when you bake cream cheese?

Baking with cream cheese introduces unique textures and flavors to various dishes. Here’s how cream cheese behaves under heat and its effects on baked goods:

Texture and Consistency

• Moisture Retention: Incorporating cream cheese into batters, such as in pound cakes, helps retain moisture, resulting in a tender and moist crumb.
• Stability in Fillings: Cream cheese provides a stable base for fillings in pastries and cheesecakes, maintaining a smooth and creamy texture after baking.

Flavor Profile

• Tangy Richness: Cream cheese imparts a subtle tanginess, enhancing the overall flavor complexity of baked goods.
• Balancing Sweetness: Its slight acidity balances sweetness, making it ideal for frostings and fillings.

Considerations When Baking

• Water Content: Homemade cream cheese may release more water during baking, potentially leading to a watery batter. Draining or pressing the cream cheese before use can mitigate this issue.
• Fat Content: Reduced-fat cream cheese contains higher moisture levels, which can result in a soggy texture in baked goods. Using full-fat versions is recommended for optimal results.

In summary, baking with cream cheese enhances both the texture and flavor of various dishes. Selecting the appropriate type and properly preparing it ensures the desired outcome in your baked creations.

This creamy, cheesy baked chicken is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a potato recipe, or a fresh salad!