Description
This creamy and comforting Cream Cheese Chicken Bake features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, savory cream cheese and Parmesan sauce, infused with herbs and spices. Seared to a golden perfection and baked until juicy and fully cooked, it’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for a hearty dinner that pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor into the meat.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds deep flavor. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Create the sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Bake the chicken: Place the seared chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish and pour the cream cheese sauce evenly over them. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) ensuring it is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, flavorful chicken bake.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and a smoother sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internal temperature.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth slightly before adding cream cheese, or add a small amount of flour or cornstarch slurry.
- Optional: add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cream Cheese Chicken, Baked Chicken, Creamy Chicken Bake, Parmesan Chicken, Easy Dinner Recipe, Comfort Food Chicken
