Creamy Garlic Chicken is an indulgent and flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a rich, cheesy, and garlicky cream cheese topping. Finished with a melt-in-your-mouth layer of cheddar cheese, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Chicken is an absolute comfort food winner. The chicken breasts are perfectly tender and juicy, while the creamy garlic mixture adds a rich, indulgent layer of flavor. With a combination of Italian blend cheese and cream cheese, this dish is velvety smooth, while the melted cheddar on top provides an irresistible finishing touch. It’s an easy recipe that feels like a special treat, making it perfect for any occasion. Creamy Garlic Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup shredded Italian blend cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cream cheese (softened)
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon if preferred less seasoned)
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, Italian blend cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well combined.
Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by spraying it with non-stick spray.
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Evenly spread the garlic cream cheese mixture on top of each chicken breast using a spatula.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each piece of chicken.
Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese has melted.

Serve and enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in a skillet over medium heat, covering it with a lid to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and the creamy mixture ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Add the cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

To check if the chicken is done, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese and shredded cheeses with non-dairy alternatives like plant-based cream cheese and vegan cheese. Be sure to check the labels to ensure the alternatives are also suitable for your dietary needs.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze Creamy Garlic Chicken. After baking, allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the baking dish for extra flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Can I make this with a different cheese blend?

Yes, you can use any cheese blend you like, such as mozzarella or cheddar, in place of the Italian blend. For a sharper flavor, you can use Parmesan or gouda as well.

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but if you like a bit of heat, you can add some red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture or sprinkle them on top of the chicken before baking.

Can I make this recipe without foil?

If you don’t have foil, you can bake the chicken uncovered for the entire time, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Can I serve this with a side dish?

This creamy garlic chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Chicken is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines rich, cheesy flavors with tender chicken breasts. It’s an easy recipe that yields a comforting and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!