Cream Cheese Baked Chicken

Cream Cheese Baked Chicken is the kind of recipe that earns constant praise—and for good reason. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are topped with a rich, creamy, garlic-infused cheese mixture and baked until golden and bubbly. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that feels elegant while requiring very little effort.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal prep. It also reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender, juicy chicken baked to perfection
Creamy garlic-Parmesan topping with rich flavor
Simple preparation with no searing required
Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights
Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for greasing or drizzling)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.

Step 5: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the topping is lightly golden and bubbly.

For extra browning, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Tips for Best Results

Let cream cheese soften fully for easier mixing
Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken
Add baby spinach or mushrooms under the cheese layer for extra nutrition
For heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with:

Roasted broccoli or green beans
Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
Buttered noodles or rice
A crisp green salad

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave gently until heated through