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Best Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts covered in a creamy, tangy sauce and baked to golden perfection. It's an incredibly easy and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and sure to become a family favorite.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet Italian dressing mix or 3 tablespoons homemade
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan) (optional
  • Chopped fresh parsley optional
  • Green onions optional

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • small bowl
  • Large bowl
  • whisk or fork
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional)
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
  2. If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the Italian dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they're evenly coated.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
  9. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  10. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. To prevent dry chicken, avoid overbaking and pound chicken breasts to an even thickness. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals. For flavor variations, try adding lemon pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach and artichoke, or jalapeños and cheddar cheese to the cream cheese mixture.