Description
This Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is rich, juicy, and impossibly easy. Topped with a flavorful blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, herbs, and crispy bacon, it turns ordinary chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy comfort dish that’s quick enough for a weeknight but indulgent enough for company.
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
4 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry, then brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Sprinkle freshly shredded cheddar cheese generously over the cream cheese layer.
6. Top with crumbled bacon, pressing lightly so it adheres.
7. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and topping is bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
10. Serve warm with light sides such as roasted vegetables or a crisp salad.
Notes
Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture after baking—it won’t get lost in the cheese.
If using thin chicken breasts, reduce baking time by 5–7 minutes to prevent drying out.
For a lighter version, ricotta cheese can be substituted, but expect a softer, looser topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Cream cheese chicken, baked chicken recipe, easy weeknight dinner