Baked Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (8 oz.) package of cream cheese, softened
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to get ready for the chicken.
Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, chives, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
Lay the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each breast, ensuring good coverage.
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the dish to help keep the meat moist during cooking.
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, allowing it to blend slightly with the cream cheese.
Bake:
Place in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the juices run clear.
If you’re adding cheddar cheese for a bubbly crust, sprinkle it over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes once removed from the oven. This is the perfect time to plate your sides or add final touches to your setup.
Garnish with fresh parsley to enhance the visual appeal before serving.