Description
This Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Quick to assemble and packed with flavor, it’s a family favorite that can be customized to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and arrange in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken and smooth with a spatula.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the sauce layer. Add extra paprika or parsley if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is golden and sauce is bubbling. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (should reach 165°F) or cut into the center to ensure juices run clear.
- Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, use softened cream cheese to avoid lumps. You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts, add spinach or other veggies, and swap cheddar for mozzarella or gouda. Assemble ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; add 5 minutes to bake time if starting cold. Leftovers store well in the fridge or freezer. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (about 1 chicken breast with sauce)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 14
- Carbohydrates: 7
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 32
Keywords: cream cheese chicken bake, creamy chicken casserole, easy chicken dinner, weeknight chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken bake, comfort food, cheesy chicken bake