Description
Everything Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons Everything Bagel seasoning
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and 1 tablespoon of Everything Bagel seasoning until smooth.
Place chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet or dish. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cream cheese layer.
In another bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and the remaining Everything Bagel seasoning. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the topping is golden and crispy.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 450 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened to room temperature for a lump-free mixture. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the topping adhere. When spreading the cream cheese mixture, go all the way to the edges to seal in moisture. For the Panko topping, mix thoroughly so the butter coats every crumb, which is key for maximum crispiness. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness precisely at 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and flavorful chicken pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Serve it alongside a crisp garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus. For a heartier plate, garlic mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf are excellent choices to soak up the creamy, cheesy sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before eating can add a wonderful bright note.
How-to Summary
In summary, this dish involves creating a creamy spread from cream cheese, mayo, sour cream, and seasoning, smothering it over chicken, topping with cheese and a buttery Panko crust, then baking until golden and cooked through. The process is straightforward: mix, spread, layer, top, and bake for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully. Adjust baking time as needed, as thighs may cook slightly faster or slower depending on size. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use certified gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or pork rinds for the crispy topping.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the chicken with the cream cheese and cheese layers up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the Panko topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
What can I substitute for Everything Bagel seasoning?
If you don’t have it, make a blend using equal parts sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and coarse salt.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the topping’s crispiness. The microwave will soften the crust.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold cream cheese, as it will not blend smoothly and can result in a chunky mixture. Do not skip patting the chicken dry, as excess moisture will create steam and make the topping soggy. Ensure you spread the cream cheese mixture evenly to fully cover the chicken, which acts as a protective layer. Finally, do not overcrowd the baking dish, as this will cause the chicken to steam instead of bake properly.
Conclusion
This Everything Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a perfect fusion of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures with the iconic savory flavor of everything bagel seasoning. It’s a reliably simple yet impressive dish that turns basic chicken into a special weeknight dinner or an easy option for entertaining. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.