Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy, savory cream cheese filling. The chicken is stuffed with a rich mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection for a meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want something comforting and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a crowd-pleasing meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The creamy filling helps to keep the chicken moist and tender, while the garlic and herbs add depth to each bite. With just a few ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick but full of flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it with your favorite side dish like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, and you’ve got a complete meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, thyme (if using), and salt and pepper.
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle, ensuring you don’t cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, evenly distributing it among the chicken breasts.
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts on both sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Add Spinach: Add some fresh spinach to the cream cheese mixture for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Cream Cheese Chicken: Add a bit of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the cream cheese filling for a spicy kick.
- Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken: Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking for an added layer of flavor and crunch.
- Herb Variation: Swap out the dried thyme for other herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil for different flavor profiles.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover baked cream cheese chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs in place of chicken breasts. The cooking time may be slightly shorter, so be sure to check the internal temperature.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and refrigerate them before baking. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use other cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone instead of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor.
Can I bake this chicken without searing it first?
Yes, you can bake the chicken without searing it first. However, searing adds extra flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy. If you skip the searing step, bake the chicken directly at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
To make this dish lighter, use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella cheese. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese for a lighter version.
What sides should I serve with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli or a cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
What can I add to the cream cheese mixture for more flavor?
You can add sautéed mushrooms, garlic, or sun-dried tomatoes to the cream cheese filling for more flavor and texture.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is perfect for juicy, tender chicken. Also, the cream cheese filling helps to keep the chicken moist.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. The creamy, savory filling keeps the chicken tender and delicious, while the simple seasonings elevate the dish without overwhelming it. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress and deliver comforting, mouthwatering results.
Print
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The cream cheese filling keeps the chicken moist and adds a rich, savory flavor that will satisfy everyone at the table. Simple to prepare and full of taste, it pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the middle, making sure not to cut all the way through.
- Stuff each chicken breast with the cream cheese mixture, distributing the filling evenly among the breasts.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Add Spinach: Mix some fresh spinach into the cream cheese filling for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Cream Cheese Chicken: Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken: Wrap the stuffed chicken breasts in bacon before baking for extra flavor and crunch.
- Herb Variation: Swap dried thyme for rosemary, oregano, or basil for different flavor profiles.
- Storage/Reheating: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
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