That’s the kind of praise Cream Cheese Baked Chicken consistently earns — and it’s easy to see why.
Tender, juicy chicken breasts get blanketed in a rich, creamy, garlic-infused cheese sauce that bakes to golden perfection. The result? A comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that looks elegant but requires barely any effort.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, impressing guests, or prepping meals for the week, this simple dish is one you’ll want on repeat.
🍗 Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Bake
There are so many reasons to make this recipe your new weeknight favorite:
✅ Tender, Juicy Chicken – Baking at the right temperature locks in moisture and flavor
✅ Cheesy, Garlic-Infused Sauce – Rich, creamy, and packed with savory depth
✅ Minimal Prep Time – Just mix, spread, and bake — no searing or sautéing required
✅ Company-Worthy – Looks fancy but comes together easily
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Reheats beautifully and pairs with a variety of sides
🛒 What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this dish to life:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
🔪 How to Make Cream Cheese Baked Chicken
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine:
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Parmesan cheese
- Minced garlic
- Onion powder
- A pinch of Italian seasoning
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Using a spatula, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden and bubbly.
If you like a browned top, you can broil for the last 2–3 minutes — just keep an eye on it!
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides — like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, rice, or pasta.
📝 Tips for Success
- Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes for easy mixing.
- Add veggies: Toss in baby spinach or chopped mushrooms under the cream cheese layer for extra nutrition.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked every time.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the cream cheese for a little heat.
🥘 What to Serve With Cream Cheese Baked Chicken
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Try pairing it with:
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
- Buttered noodles or pasta with a light drizzle of olive oil
- A fresh garden salad for a crisp contrast
🧊 How to Store and Reheat
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
❤️ Final Thoughts
Cream Cheese Baked Chicken is the kind of dish that surprises everyone — it’s simple, satisfying, and always gets rave reviews. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, it delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Try it once, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly staple!