Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

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Looking for a creamy, comforting Low-Carb Dinner? This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is your answer! Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy cream cheese topping, seasoned to perfection, and baked until juicy. This easy, keto-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals, pairing beautifully with veggies or your favorite sides.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a standout Low-Carb Dinner:

  • Rich and Creamy: Luscious cream cheese keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
  • Effortless Prep: Mix, spread, and bake in just 40 minutes.
  • Customizable: Add spices, bacon, or veggies for your own twist.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats like a dream.
  • Family Favorite: Cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
  • I make this Low-Carb Dinner when I need a quick, satisfying meal, and the creamy topping always wins hearts at the table!

Ingredients for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken (serves 4):

  • For the Chicken:
    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
    • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • ½ tsp salt
    • ½ tsp black pepper
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
    • ½ tsp onion powder
    • ½ tsp paprika
  • For the Cream Cheese Topping:
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Tips:

  • Chicken: Breasts ensure even cooking; pound to uniform thickness if needed.
  • Cream Cheese: Full-fat for richness; soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
  • Cheese: Parmesan adds nuttiness, mozzarella melts beautifully.
  • Seasoning: Adjust paprika or add smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
  • Garnish: Fresh herbs elevate presentation and taste.

Directions for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Let’s create this delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken!

Prep Chicken

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. I rub 4 chicken breasts with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season both sides with ½ tsp each of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Make Cream Cheese Topping

In a medium bowl, I mix 8 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan, ½ cup mozzarella, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.

Assemble Dish

I place the seasoned chicken breasts in the baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each breast, ensuring full coverage.

Bake Chicken

I bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For a golden top, I optionally broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.

Serve

I let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve warm.

Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
  • Macros per Serving: 5g carbs, 35g protein, 28g fat, 0g fiber

Variations for Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Try these twists on Baked Cream Cheese Chicken:

  • Spicy: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the topping for a kick.
  • Ranch Style: Mix 1 tbsp ranch seasoning into the cream cheese for tangy flavor.
  • Bacon Lover’s: Top with ¼ cup crumbled bacon before baking.
  • Veggie Boost: Layer sautéed spinach or mushrooms under the topping.
  • Cheddar Swap: Replace mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper taste.

Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with roasted broccoli or zucchini for a complete Low-Carb Dinner.
  • Serve over pasta or rice for a heartier meal.
  • Add a side salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Storage

I store leftover Baked Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, cooling completely before sealing. For freezing, I wrap portions tightly and store for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge. I reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts until warmed through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

FAQs:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Adjust the baking time to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) internally.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat gives the best creamy texture.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overbake! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese and omit the Parmesan and mozzarella.

What sides go well with this dish?
Serve with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh salad.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness.

How do I get a crispier top?
Broil the chicken for a few minutes after baking.

Can I add more seasonings?
Absolutely! Try smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, or garlic herb blends.

Can I use shredded chicken for a casserole version?
Yes! Mix shredded chicken with the cream cheese topping and bake in a casserole dish.

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Conclusion

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s an easy, comforting meal that pairs perfectly with your favorite sides. Try this simple yet delicious recipe tonight for a guaranteed family favorite!

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is an easy, creamy, and flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts, a garlic-herb cream cheese topping, and a crispy parmesan crust. Perfect for weeknight dinners with minimal prep!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Cream Cheese Topping:

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Topping:

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs optional, for extra crunch
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 tablespoon butter melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • Place chicken in the prepared baking dish.

Make the Cream Cheese Topping

  • In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella until smooth.
  • Spread the mixture evenly over each chicken breast.

Add the Crunchy Topping

  • In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
  • Sprinkle evenly over the cream cheese-covered chicken.

Bake the Chicken

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • If the topping isn’t golden brown, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Serve & Garnish

  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  • Serve warm with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

Notes

  • No panko? Use crushed Ritz crackers or omit for a softer texture.
  • Want extra flavor? Add chopped cooked bacon or spinach to the cream cheese mixture.
  • Make it Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

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Keyword Baking

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