Description
Succulent golden baked cream cheese chicken delivers comfort and elegance in one delightful dish. Rich, creamy textures and savory flavors blend perfectly, promising a memorable meal that will satisfy your culinary cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 ounces / 226 grams) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Oils:
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and coating a baking dish with a light layer of olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Create a creamy filling by blending softened cream cheese with finely chopped garlic, delicate chives, warming paprika, and a balanced mix of salt and pepper until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
- Arrange chicken breasts in the prepared dish, carefully spreading the seasoned cream cheese mixture across the surface of each piece, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Enhance moisture by gently pouring chicken broth around the chicken and drizzling a touch of olive oil over the top, which will help maintain tenderness during cooking.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165F (75C). For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese during the final 5 minutes of cooking to create a golden, bubbling crust.
- Remove from the oven and allow the chicken to rest briefly, which helps redistribute internal juices and maintain optimal tenderness.
- Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately alongside your preferred accompaniments.
Notes
- Check chicken thickness for even cooking, using a meat mallet to pound breasts to uniform thickness if needed.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother, easier mixing and better blending with herbs and spices.
- Substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version of the dish.
- Consider gluten-free diets by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially chicken broth and seasonings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 357 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg