Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick, easy, and creamy dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts topped with a rich cream cheese sauce blended with garlic, Parmesan, and optional spinach. Baked to golden perfection, this comforting family-friendly meal offers a deliciously satisfying experience that pairs well with a variety of sides and fits well into busy weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for searing

Cream Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt and pepper
  • ½ cup fresh spinach (optional), chopped or thawed and drained if frozen

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly sear the chicken breasts until they are golden on both sides but not fully cooked through. This helps seal in the flavors and ensures a juicy finish after baking.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, grated Parmesan, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. If using spinach, fold it into the mixture now for added color and nutrients.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Place the partially cooked chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture over each piece, ensuring a generous layer that will melt and create a luscious sauce during baking.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, the topping is bubbly, and slightly golden. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and tenderness.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful before slicing or serving.

Notes

  • Soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for a smooth sauce.
  • Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
  • Sear chicken evenly on both sides for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Freshly minced garlic greatly enhances the flavor compared to powdered garlic.
  • Allow the chicken to rest after baking to lock in moisture.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: baked chicken, cream cheese chicken, easy chicken recipe, creamy chicken, family dinner, quick dinner, gluten free chicken