Description
A simple and delicious baked cream cheese chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan, seasoned with garlic, onion, paprika, and fresh parsley for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it using cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place Chicken: Lay the chicken breasts flat inside the prepared baking dish.
- Oil Chicken: Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil, ensuring both sides are evenly coated for moisture and flavor.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Mix Cheese: Stir the cheeses together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Spread Cheese Topping: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the tops of each chicken breast, covering them completely for a creamy coating.
- Bake Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices and finish cooking.
- Garnish: Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the baked chicken for a fresh, colorful garnish.
- Serve: Serve the baked cream cheese chicken hot and enjoy a rich, flavorful protein dish.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- You can swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Adjust seasoning amounts to taste, especially salt and paprika based on your preference.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to avoid drying out.
