Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy cheese filling that’s infused with the richness of cream cheese and cheddar cheese, along with the nutritious goodness of spinach. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 380
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
Why Make This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken dish stands out for its creamy, flavorful filling and crispy topping. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese provides a rich flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Plus, the spinach adds a burst of color and nutrients. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal prep but looks and tastes gourmet. Perfect for impressing friends or simply enjoying a cozy night at home!
How to Make Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is hot enough to give your chicken that perfect baked texture.
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Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture creates a creamy filling that will hold moisture in the chicken while boosting flavors.
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Step 3: Cooking
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top of each piece of chicken. If you enjoy added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for extra texture. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Step 4: Finishing
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish, making it even more appealing!
How to Serve Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The creamy chicken can also be served with pasta for a heartier meal. For a nice touch, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the chicken before serving.
How to Store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature to make it easier to mix.
- Feel free to add herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking.
Delicious Variations
- Veggie Loaded: Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for an extra veggie punch.
- Italian Flare: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella and add Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
- Buffalo Style: Mix in some buffalo sauce with the cream cheese mixture for a spicy version.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the dish for even cooking.
- What can I substitute for cream cheese? Greek yogurt can be a lower-fat alternative, though it will change the flavor and texture slightly.
- How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and bake it just before serving.
- What sides go well with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken? Great options include a Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is an easy, delicious recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Its cheesy filling and succulent chicken make it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and gatherings with friends. Give this recipe a try, and savor the creamy goodness with each bite! Enjoy cooking and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delicious and comforting baked chicken dish with a creamy cheese filling and nutritious spinach.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For a crispier topping, broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. You can prepare this dish a day in advance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
