Baked Cream Cheese Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
04 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Seasonings

06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
09 - 1 teaspoon salt
10 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
11 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
02 - In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined and creamy. Set this mixture aside.
03 - Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
04 - Remove the skillet from heat. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover the surface completely.
05 - Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
06 - Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. This resting time helps the juices redistribute for more tender chicken.

# Notes:

01 - Add breadcrumbs on top of the cheese mixture before baking for extra crunch and texture
02 - Try substituting mozzarella with cheddar or gouda cheese for different flavor profiles
03 - The cream cheese mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge for quick assembly
04 - Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete, balanced meal