Looking for a dinner idea that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to pull off? Meet your new weeknight favorite: Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. This dish delivers juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, savory, and cheesy topping that gets bubbly and golden in the oven. It’s cozy, comforting, and loaded with flavor—yet it only takes minutes to assemble.

Whether you’re planning a casual dinner or need something satisfying for guests, this recipe checks every box. The cream cheese base melts into the chicken as it bakes, keeping everything moist and tender, while the cheddar and bacon finish it off with that irresistible crust. If you love simple recipes that taste like effort, this one belongs on your shortlist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

For the best results with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, having the right tools on hand makes prep smoother and cleanup easier:

Baking Dish (9×13-inch): This is where everything comes together. A ceramic or glass dish helps distribute heat evenly and keeps the chicken from drying out.
Mixing Bowl: You’ll use this to blend the cream cheese mixture. Go for a medium-sized one with enough room for stirring.
Spatula or Spoon: Essential for spreading the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need these for prepping the bacon and chives. A clean cut ensures consistent flavor in every bite.
Aluminum Foil: To tent over the dish during the first half of baking, which locks in moisture until you’re ready to finish with a broil for that golden top.
Oven: Preheated to the right temperature, this is your final step in transforming raw ingredients into something mouthwateringly melty.

Once you’ve gathered your tools, you’re all set to build a dish that’s both creamy and crave-worthy.

Ingredients for the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Each ingredient in this recipe contributes to the creamy richness and balanced flavor that makes this dish such a standout.

Chicken Breasts: The foundation of the dish. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease and quick cooking.
Cream Cheese: This adds body and a rich, tangy base to the topping. Make sure it’s softened so it blends easily.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the cream cheese layer and adds a sharp, savory depth.
Cooked Bacon: Adds crunch and smoky saltiness that balances the creamy components beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A little kick of warm flavor that brings everything together.
Onion Powder: Boosts the savory profile without overpowering the dish.
Chopped Chives or Green Onions: For color, freshness, and a light onion finish.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

How To Make the Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and place the chicken breasts inside. Pat them dry for best texture.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of salt and pepper, and half of the chopped chives. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Layer It Up

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, followed by crumbled cooked bacon.

Step 4: Bake Covered Then Uncovered

Tent the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).

Step 5: Broil for a Golden Top

If desired, broil on high for 2-3 minutes at the end to brown the cheese. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with remaining chives before serving. Let rest 5 minutes, then serve hot.

Best Ways to Serve and Store Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

This creamy baked chicken is incredibly versatile at the table. Serve it with classic sides like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. It also pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta, allowing the cheesy topping to double as a creamy sauce.

For storing, let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and warm in the oven at 325°F or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain the creaminess.

For longer storage, freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but you can substitute with thighs if you prefer a juicier, richer option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store in the fridge. Bake when you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have chives?

Green onions are a great substitute, or you can skip them if needed. The dish will still be full of flavor.

Is this keto-friendly?

Absolutely. This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it a great fit for a keto diet.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, you can bake chopped spinach or mushrooms under the cream cheese topping. Just make sure they’re not too watery.

What’s the best way to know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into rich, satisfying meals like this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, there’s plenty more where that came from.

You might also enjoy the bold flavor twist in my Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe, where tender pasta layers meet spicy, creamy goodness. Or go for something lighter but equally flavorful with this Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs recipe.

For something cozy, try the Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup or the ultra-comforting One Pot French Onion Chicken Rice. And if you’re looking to feed a crowd, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a surefire hit that’s loaded with creamy spice.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for easy reference. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go with bacon or turkey bacon? Maybe added mushrooms or a hint of spice? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how your kitchen twists turn out.

For more daily comfort food and weeknight dinner inspiration, follow me over on Pinterest @LadyPlate!

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

Baked Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and comforting dish made with juicy chicken breasts smothered in a seasoned cream cheese blend, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon. Perfect for weeknights or casual entertaining, this recipe is low-carb and irresistibly creamy with just the right amount of crunch.

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Place chicken breasts in the dish and pat dry with a paper towel.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, half the chopped chives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

4. Spread the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast evenly.

5. Top each piece with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon.

6. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

7. Remove foil and continue baking for 10-15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.

8. Optionally broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden top.

9. Garnish with remaining chives. Let rest for 5 minutes and serve hot.