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There’s something deeply satisfying about a creamy, garlicky chicken dish that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion. If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet simple recipe, this Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake will become your new favorite. The tender chicken breasts are enveloped in a luscious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and fresh chives, balanced with a hint of paprika and optionally topped with sharp cheddar for an irresistible finish. Ready in under an hour, this bake is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
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Simple Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
There’s something deeply satisfying about a creamy, garlicky chicken dish that makes any dinner feel like a special occasion. This Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake offers tender chicken breasts in a luscious blend of cream cheese, garlic, and fresh chives, balanced with paprika and optionally topped with sharp cheddar.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
8 oz cream cheese softened
1 tbsp fresh chives chopped
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese optional
Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. Cook minced garlic in skillet for 30 seconds.
6. Add chicken broth, reduce slightly for 1-2 minutes.
7. Stir in softened cream cheese until smooth.
8. Add chives, salt, and pepper.
9. Place chicken in baking dish and pour cream cheese mixture over it.
10. Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
12. Broil last 2-3 minutes if using cheese.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use chicken breasts of similar thickness or pound before cooking.
Cream cheese should be at room temperature for smooth mixing.
Fresh garlic recommended but garlic powder can substitute.
Adjust seasoning to taste; add more paprika or chives as desired.
Cheddar cheese topping is optional for added texture.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz |
| Fresh chives, chopped | 1 tbsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) | As needed |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken breasts well on both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, avoiding browning.
- Stir in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
- Add softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix in fresh chives and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Optionally, sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If cheese is used, broil for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a browned topping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm, pairing beautifully with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake
- For even cooking, choose chicken breasts of similar thickness or pound them slightly before seasoning.
- Using room temperature cream cheese helps it blend smoothly without clumps.
- Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a convenient substitute.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference more paprika for smoky heat or extra chives for fresh brightness.
- The optional cheddar cheese gives a lovely texture contrast, but this dish is delicious on its own if you prefer to keep it lighter.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices and enhance tenderness.
Conclusion
With its creamy garlic sauce, subtle herbs, and juicy baked chicken, the Cream Cheese Garlic Chicken Bake is a luxurious yet foolproof recipe that will impress your household or guests. This dish demonstrates how simple ingredients can be elevated into a delightful comfort meal you’ll keep returning to. Prepare it with love, and enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!