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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

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Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious topping of cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Seasoned with aromatic spices like smoked paprika and thyme, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The golden, bubbly topping not only enhances the flavor but also ensures the chicken stays moist and juicy. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Cream Cheese Topping:

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for tanginess)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil.
    • Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
  • Season the Chicken:
    • Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil.
    • Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  • Prepare the Cream Cheese Topping:
    • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), minced garlic, and parsley.
    • Mix well until smooth and creamy.
  • Assemble the Dish:
    • Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the tops of the seasoned chicken breasts using a spatula.
  • Bake the Chicken:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
    • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese topping is golden and bubbly.
  • Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
    • Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
    • Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Chicken Substitute: Feel free to use chicken thighs for a juicier alternative.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Gruyere for a unique twist.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the cream cheese topping in advance to save time.
  • Keto-Friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs. Pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
  • Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/baked-cream-cheese-chicken/