I had no idea chicken could taste like this! Wowzers!

Ever had one of those days where you just need something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen? I sure have! That's exactly what led me to create this heartwarming dish—Baked Cream Cheese Chicken. It's one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The origins of this dish are a little bit of here and there, mingled with a touch of Midwestern comfort food tradition. It's perfect for anyone craving that creamy, savory goodness with minimal fuss. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, this recipe will hit the spot. Plus, it's got that 'polished' look that makes it a great choice for surprising guests or for when you're looking to impress. So let's get that oven preheated!

This creamy, dreamy chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. I usually go for light and simple accompaniments like a garden salad tossed with vinaigrette or some steamed green beans to add a pop of color. If you're in the mood for something a bit heartier, roasted vegetables or a creamy mashed potato dish make fantastic companions. And for our friends who can never have too much cheese, a sprinkle of shredded parmesan over some al dente pasta works wonders with the creamy sauce from the chicken.

Servings: 4

- 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)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with minced garlic, chives, paprika, salt, and pepper until well mixed.

3. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and spread the cream cheese mixture over each breast evenly.

4. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the dish—this helps keep everything nice and moist.

5. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, ensuring some of that goodness seeps into the cream cheese.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

7. If you're opting for a cheesy crust, sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top of the chicken for the last 5 minutes of baking until it's bubbly and golden.

8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This is a good time to fluff up your sides or put the finishing touches on your salad.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley for that extra pop of color and serve hot.

- Feel free to experiment with different herbs like dill or basil in the cream cheese mixture for a new twist.
- Try adding some chopped spinach or sundried tomatoes to the cream cheese mix for an extra layer of flavor and some veggies.
- If you're keeping it low carb, swap out the sides for cauliflower rice or a zucchini noodle dish.
- For meal prep, divide the dish into individual servings and refrigerate or freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal on busy days.

With this Baked Cream Cheese Chicken, you're just one dish away from a comforting and satisfying meal that feels like a big ol' Midwestern hug. Enjoy!