Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Mexican blend)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup chopped spinach
- 1 small jalapeño, diced
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken breasts with paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt.
- Grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil and place the chicken inside.
-
Cook the Chicken (Choose a Method)
- Bake: Cook for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Sauté: Heat a skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Boil: Simmer in seasoned water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
-
Make the Cream Cheese Mixture
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, minced garlic, and any optional add-ins.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble and Bake
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
-
Serve
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To prevent overcooking, always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Soften Cream Cheese: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before mixing for a smoother texture.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a crispy finish.
- Make It a Casserole: Mix in cooked pasta or rice before baking to create a one-pan meal.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute regular cream cheese and shredded cheese with dairy-free alternatives.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with portobello mushrooms or firm tofu for a plant-based alternative.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve with garlic bread, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with cream cheese topping
- Calories: 400-450
- Sugar: 2-3g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
- Fat: 25-30g
- Saturated Fat: 12-15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8-12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6-12g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Protein: 30-35g
- Cholesterol: 90-110mg
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