Heavenly Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe Your Family Will Love

Creamy textures and savory baked cream cheese chicken promise a delightful meal that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Aromas of melted cheese and tender poultry will fill your kitchen with warmth.

Weeknight dinners demand something special, and this recipe delivers pure comfort on a plate.

Simple ingredients combine to create a dish that feels like a culinary hug.

Perfectly seasoned chicken breasts get enveloped in rich, smooth cream cheese for maximum flavor.

Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a gourmet-style meal without complicated techniques.

One bite will convince you this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Why Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Is So Comforting

• No complicated techniques required – just mix, spread, and bake. Home cooks of all skill levels can confidently create this creamy, cheesy chicken masterpiece.
• The crispy panko topping and rich cream cheese coating transform ordinary chicken into an irresistible meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Guaranteed to please both kids and adults with its creamy texture and golden-brown crunch.
• Easily pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta, making it a flexible recipe that adapts to your family's preferences and pantry ingredients.

What Goes Into This Baked Chicken Dish

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein base of the dish, boneless and skinless preferred for even cooking.
• Cream Cheese: Adds rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor to the chicken topping.
• Mayonnaise: Helps create smooth, creamy sauce with added richness.
• Parmesan Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Provide melty, savory cheese flavor and extra protein.

• Salt: Essential for enhancing overall flavor of the dish.
• Black Pepper: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
• Paprika: Brings subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provides aromatic and savory undertones.
• Italian Seasoning: Offers a blend of dried herbs for added complexity.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright, fresh garnish with a pop of green color.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates crispy, light golden crust with excellent texture.
• Butter: Helps breadcrumbs brown and adds rich, golden flavor.

How to Bake Chicken with a Tangy Cream Cheese Coating

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Warm up the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder

Step 3: Create the Creamy Topping

• Cream cheese
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Parmesan cheese
• Mozzarella cheese

Step 4: Spread the Creamy Mixture

Evenly spread the cheese mixture over each chicken breast in the baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Topping

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Melted butter

Step 6: Add the Crispy Layer

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly across the cream cheese-covered chicken.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cook in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 8: Create a Golden Finish

If the topping hasn’t turned a beautiful golden brown, broil for 2-3 minutes.

Step 9: Rest and Garnish

Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the chicken alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta.

Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken and Perfect Texture

• Customize Chicken Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking and to prevent dry edges.
• Check Cream Cheese Temperature: Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother spreading on chicken.
• Boost Breadcrumb Crispiness: Toast panko breadcrumbs before mixing with butter and parmesan for extra golden and crunchy topping.
• Prevent Dry Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to precisely track internal temperature and avoid overcooking chicken.
• Dairy-Free Modification: Substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or dairy-free cream cheese alternative for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Save and Reheat Without Drying Out the Cream Cheese Layer

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days.
• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags, lasting up to 3 months for best quality.
• Preheat to 350F, cover chicken with foil to prevent drying, warm for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F.
• Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature and moisture to avoid rubbery texture, stopping when thoroughly warmed.

What Complements This Baked Chicken Recipe

• Choose a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the rich, creamy chicken, cutting through its decadent texture with bright, refreshing acidity.
• Prepare a side of roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and herbs, creating a perfect balance to the creamy chicken's indulgent flavor profile.
• Whip up simple angel hair or linguine with garlic, parmesan, and a touch of butter, providing a light yet satisfying accompaniment that enhances the dish's creamy essence.
• Create a quick herbed aioli or chimichurri to add a zesty, bright dimension that contrasts the chicken's rich cream cheese coating, bringing vibrant freshness to each bite.

Flavor Variations for Cream Cheese Chicken

• Low-Carb Keto Version: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a carb-free crispy topping. Use full-fat cream cheese and skip breadcrumbs entirely for a keto-friendly protein.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream or coconut cream. Use dairy-free mayonnaise and nutritional yeast instead of parmesan. Replace mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping. Ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free. Verify ingredient labels to prevent cross-contamination.
• Mediterranean Herb Variation: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil to the cream cheese mixture. Replace Italian seasoning with za'atar spice blend. Top with crumbled feta cheese instead of mozzarella for a Mediterranean flavor profile.

Questions About Baking Chicken with Cream Cheese

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust cooking time since thighs might take slightly longer to cook thoroughly.

• Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken with cream cheese mixture and breadcrumb topping up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the refrigerator.

• How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use low-fat cream cheese, Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, reduce the amount of cheese, and use whole wheat breadcrumbs. These substitutions will help create a lighter version of the dish.

• What if I don't have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs work perfectly fine. If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can crush crackers or use crushed cornflakes as a crispy alternative topping for the chicken.

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory cream cheese chicken elevates weeknight dinners with its rich, creamy blend of tender chicken and smooth cheese. Quick preparation meets delightful flavor, making this dish perfect for home cooks craving comfort without complexity.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning and Spices:

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese and Dairy:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup mayonnaise or sour cream
• ½ cup (56 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese, grated

Topping:

• ½ cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 375F (190C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry, removing excess moisture for better seasoning adherence.
3. Generously season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
4. Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them slightly apart.
5. Create a creamy topping by combining cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, parmesan, and mozzarella in a mixing bowl until completely smooth and well-integrated.
6. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, completely covering the surface with a thick, luxurious layer.
7. Prepare the crispy topping by mixing panko breadcrumbs, additional parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a separate bowl until the crumbs are thoroughly coated.
8. Distribute the buttery breadcrumb mixture uniformly across the cream cheese-covered chicken, creating a potential crispy golden crust.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches the safe 165F (75C).
10. If the breadcrumb topping hasn’t achieved a golden-brown color, activate the broiler and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
11. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, which helps redistribute the juices and maintain moisture.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
13. Serve immediately alongside roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta for a complete meal.

Notes

• Ensure chicken breasts are evenly sized for consistent cooking, preventing dry or undercooked sections.
• Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning to help create a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping that adheres perfectly.
• Choose full-fat cream cheese for a richer, more luxurious sauce that melts smoothly over the chicken breasts.
• For gluten-free variation, swap panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or gluten-free breadcrumbs to maintain the crispy texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg