Cheddar Bacon Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of recipe that brings comfort straight to the table. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a velvety cream cheese mixture, topped with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, then baked until irresistibly golden. It is indulgent without being overly complicated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. What I enjoy most about this dish is how forgiving it is. I once substituted almond milk in the cream cheese mixture to lighten it slightly, and while the sauce was thinner, it still baked into the chicken beautifully. The ingredients blend effortlessly to create a savoury, creamy finish with just the right balance of richness and texture. If you are looking for a satisfying dinner that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavour, this recipe is sure to become a regular part of your rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the classic trio of cheddar, bacon, and cream cheese into a single comforting baked dish. Everything goes into one pan, making preparation and cleanup simple. The chicken remains tender under its creamy topping, while the bacon adds a crisp, salty contrast. The dish pairs seamlessly with rice, potatoes, pasta, or even a simple green salad. It is easy to customise, reheats beautifully, and is versatile enough for both weeknight meals and casual gatherings.
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Cheddar Bacon Cream Cheese Chicken: A Rich, Crowd-Pleasing Dinner Favourite
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and indulgent cheddar bacon cream cheese chicken bake featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy, smoky topping.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts – 4 (about 1.5 lbs)
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Cream cheese, softened – 8 oz
- Cheddar cheese, shredded – 1 cup
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled – 6 slices
- Green onions, sliced – 2 stalks
- Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes per side to add color. Transfer to the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and half of the crumbled bacon until combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is bubbly.
- Garnish with the remaining bacon and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier dish.
- For extra flavor, add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning to the cheese mixture.
- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken Breasts
These provide the protein base and absorb the flavours of the creamy mixture as they bake.
Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese creates the rich, velvety layer that keeps the chicken moist.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp cheddar melts over the top, adding a savoury bite and golden finish.
Cooked Bacon
Crispy bacon pieces add salty crunch and smoky depth to the dish.
Garlic Powder
Introduces warmth and enhances the savoury elements of the cream cheese mixture.
Onion Powder
Adds gentle sweetness and rounds out the flavour profile.
Olive Oil
Used to grease the pan lightly and assist in browning the chicken.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple but essential for seasoning both the chicken and the creamy topping.
Fresh Chives or Parsley
Optional herbs that brighten the dish and add visual appeal.
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven and lightly greasing a baking dish with olive oil. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper, then arrange them evenly in the dish. In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch more seasoning until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over each chicken breast, ensuring full coverage. Sprinkle shredded cheddar generously on top, followed by crumbled cooked bacon. Bake the chicken uncovered until it is fully cooked and the cheese is melted, bubbling, and lightly browned. Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving so the sauce settles. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm with your preferred sides and spoon extra sauce over the top for maximum flavour.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation requires about 10 minutes, followed by 30–35 minutes of baking time, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat. Microwaving is possible, but reheating slowly helps preserve the creamy texture. Do not freeze, as cream cheese-based sauces tend to separate upon thawing.
Variations and Customizations
Spice-Lover’s Chicken
Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cream cheese mixture for heat.
Ranch-Style Version
Mix a spoonful of ranch seasoning into the cream cheese for a bold, tangy twist.
Low-Carb Option
Serve with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables for a lighter pairing.
Herb and Garlic Variation
Stir fresh minced garlic and a handful of chopped herbs directly into the cream cheese.
Barbecue Bacon Chicken
Drizzle a small amount of barbecue sauce under the cheddar layer for smoky sweetness.
Monterey Jack Swap
Replace cheddar with Monterey Jack for a milder yet beautifully melty topping.
Turkey Bacon Alternative
Use turkey bacon for a slightly lighter but still flavourful version.
Veggie Boost
Add sliced spinach or sautéed mushrooms beneath the cream cheese layer.
Dairy-Lighter Version
Use reduced-fat cream cheese and a modest amount of cheddar while maintaining richness.
Crispy Topping
Finish the dish with a sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs for added crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs work well and remain tender; adjust baking time as needed.
Should I cover the dish while baking?
No, bake uncovered so the cheese browns nicely.
Can I make this ahead?
You can assemble the dish a few hours in advance and refrigerate until baking.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, softened cream cheese spreads easily and combines smoothly.
Can I use pre-cooked shredded chicken?
This recipe is designed for raw chicken; pre-cooked chicken may dry out.
What sides pair best?
Mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables work beautifully.
Can I add vegetables directly to the dish?
Yes, place them under or beside the chicken before baking.
Will reduced-fat cream cheese still work?
Yes, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.
How do I know the chicken is done?
It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bacon Cream Cheese Chicken is a comforting, flavourful dinner that blends creamy richness with satisfying savoury elements. Its ease of preparation, adaptability, and crowd-pleasing profile make it a dependable recipe for both weeknight meals and relaxed gatherings. With its melty cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, this dish delivers a hearty and memorable dining experience every time.
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