Description
A delightful dish combining juicy chicken with a creamy, rich sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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, for topping)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Season the chicken: Generously sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir in softened cream cheese until smooth. Add chopped chives and season with salt and pepper.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Place seared chicken in the baking dish and pour the cream cheese mixture over the top. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake: Transfer to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For added cheese melt, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy warm with your choice of sides.
Notes
Feel free to substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel for a lighter option. Add herbs like thyme for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: baked chicken, cream cheese, easy dinner, family favorite, comfort food