Garlic Cheddar Chicken Bake Recipe
Introduction
This Garlic Cheddar Chicken Bake is a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich garlic and cheddar cheese mixture, then baked to perfection. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Freshly chopped green onions
- Freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400˚F.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, 3/4 cup of the grated cheddar cheese, and pressed garlic. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
- Step 3: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken evenly in a large baking dish.
- Step 4: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each piece of chicken. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
- Step 5: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F.
- Step 6: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier twist.
- Use mozzarella instead of cheddar for a milder, gooey cheese topping.
- Chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier result.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, taking care not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and cover it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with Garlic Cheddar Chicken Bake?
This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or simple sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted potatoes for a satisfying meal.
PrintGarlic Cheddar Chicken Bake Recipe
This Garlic Cheddar Chicken Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts smothered in a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, garlic, and cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection and topped with fresh green onions and parsley, it makes a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast
Cheese and Dairy Mixture
- 6 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
Seasoning and Garnish
- 4 cloves garlic (pressed)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- Freshly chopped green onions
- Freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400˚F (204˚C) to ensure it is ready for baking the chicken evenly.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, 3/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese, and pressed garlic cloves. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat in a large baking dish. Spread the prepared cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the chicken cheese layer for extra cheesiness.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the chicken cook gently and keeps it moist.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C) and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley. Serve the garlic cheddar chicken bake warm for a delicious meal experience.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese to ensure smooth mixing.
- You can swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: Garlic Cheddar Chicken Bake, creamy chicken recipe, baked chicken, cheesy chicken, easy dinner, comfort food
