Name: Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat); 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (mix of basil, oregano, thyme); 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp olive oil

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There’s something incredibly inviting about the aroma wafting from a Cream Cheese Chicken Bake that’s creamy, cozy, and irresistible. Picture this: tender chicken enveloped in a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and herbs. creamy chicken dish with bacon It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate! Ideal for those long evenings when you want comfort food without the fuss. For more inspiration, check out this creamy chicken tortellini recipe recipe.

I fondly remember the first time I made this dish for friends during a chilly fall evening. The laughter around the table was as warm as the oven, and everyone kept asking for seconds. It became an instant classic in our circle—a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories while satisfying those cozy cravings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Its rich flavor profile will have everyone coming back for more
Visually, it’s stunning with its creamy topping and golden crust
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies

Making this dish was met with gasps of delight when my family tasted it for the first time.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust according to your crowd. comforting chicken wild rice soup.
Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a richer taste that makes everything better.
Fresh Spinach: Use bright green leaves for freshness; they add both color and nutrients.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it brings out the best in your chicken.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give that delightful crunch on top—don’t skip these!
Dried Italian Herbs: A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme adds depth to the dish.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping everything moist.
Olive Oil: For drizzling over the top before baking; it helps achieve that golden color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab yourself a trusty baking dish. Lightly grease it with nonstick spray so nothing sticks later on.

Prepare the Chicken: Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Place them neatly in your prepared baking dish so they fit snugly without overlapping.

Create the Creamy Mixture: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder and dried Italian herbs until smooth and creamy. The aroma will have you dreaming of Italy!

Add Spinach: Fold in fresh spinach until well distributed throughout the cream cheese mixture. spinach and cheese pull apart bread This step not only adds flavor but also makes you feel healthier—bonus points!

Top It Off: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Then sprinkle panko breadcrumbs generously on top for that perfect crunchy finish.

Bake Away: Drizzle olive oil over everything before placing it in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and panko is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly by now!

Now, all that’s left is to let this Cream Cheese Chicken Bake rest for five minutes before serving. delightful creamy chicken orzo Gather your loved ones around and enjoy every creamy bite!

This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings—you might even find yourself making it weekly!

You Must Know

This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken Bake is not just creamy; it’s a hug for your taste buds
With its rich flavors and cozy texture, it transforms any meal into a warm gathering
Perfect for busy nights, this dish comes together quickly and impresses everyone around the dinner table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F while you prepare your ingredients. Sear the chicken in a pan for a few minutes on each side until golden brown, then transfer it to a baking dish. This ensures that the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or spices! Add spinach, bell peppers, or garlic for extra flavor. You can also swap regular cream cheese for flavored varieties to enhance the dish’s taste profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining its creamy goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect results, always use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps
Adjust seasoning based on your taste preferences for best results
Remember to let leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container

When I first made this Cream Cheese Chicken Bake for a family gathering, I was amazed at how quickly it disappeared! Everyone raved about it and even asked for the recipe—definitely a win in my book!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken Bake?

Serve this bake with rice, pasta, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even results.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, followed by 30-35 minutes of baking time.