Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a luxurious and comforting dish that features tender, juicy chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy cream cheese sauce. It’s a recipe that feels fancy enough for a dinner party but is simple enough to make on a weeknight.

The cream cheese adds a luscious texture, while hints of garlic and herbs elevate the flavors. This dish is ideal for when you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Even if you’re not typically a fan of rich sauces, the balance of flavors will make this a favorite in your recipe collection. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this baked chicken dish is bound to be a hit!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Aluminum foil (for covering, if needed)

Ingredients Overview

Chicken Breasts: The base of the dish, chicken breasts cook up tender and juicy when baked in the creamy sauce.
Cream Cheese: Adds a velvety texture and a tangy flavor to the sauce. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the dish a punch of savory flavor.
Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning provides a hint of earthy, herby goodness, while fresh herbs like parsley brighten the dish.
Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and helps create a creamy sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
Shredded Mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top, adding a gooey, cheesy layer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or nonstick spray.
Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish, making sure they are evenly spaced.
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Dish: Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Use a spatula to spread it out, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). If the cheese begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use softened cream cheese to ensure the sauce is smooth and easily spreadable.
Chicken Thickness: If your chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness for more consistent cooking.
Add Vegetables: For a complete meal, add chopped veggies like broccoli or bell peppers to the dish before baking.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, fluffy mashed potatoes, or a side of buttered pasta. A crisp, green salad also complements the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with buttery garlic bread, rice pilaf, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Vegetable Pairings: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a simple mixed green salad are excellent choices.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs nicely with the creamy, savory flavors.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Arrange Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
Mix Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth.
Pour and Spread: Pour the cream cheese sauce over the chicken breasts, spreading it evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. If needed, cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Garnish: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness!