Everything Cream Cheese Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Savory: The creamy filling made with garlic, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar will melt in your mouth, creating a luxurious bite in every piece of chicken.

• Perfectly Crispy Coating: The crunchy bagel breadcrumb crust, infused with everything seasoning, provides a satisfying texture and savory flavor that complements the creamy filling.

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together in about an hour—perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.

• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning or filling to suit your taste, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

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

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 5 oz each)

• 6 tbsp spreadable garlic and herb cream cheese (or regular cream cheese)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 oz shredded Parmesan cheese

• 2 oz shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 plain bagel or 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (divided)

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1 egg (beaten)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Bagel Crumbs: Break the bagel into pieces and pulse them in a food processor or blender until they form fine crumbs. If you prefer, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead. Toss the crumbs with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of everything seasoning until well-coated.

3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and shredded cheddar. Stir until smooth and well incorporated.

4. Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally, creating a pocket in the middle. Be sure not to cut all the way through. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.

5. Stuff the Chicken: Spoon the cream cheese mixture into each chicken breast, spreading it evenly inside. Be generous with the filling, ensuring the chicken is fully stuffed.

6. Coat the Chicken: First, dredge the stuffed chicken in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally, coat it in the bagel crumb mixture. Press down slightly to ensure the crumbs stick well to the chicken.

7. Bake: Arrange the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining everything seasoning on top of the chicken. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

8. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes

• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Veggies: You can mix spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers into the cream cheese filling for added texture and flavor.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the cream cheese filling for a spicy twist.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the bagel crumbs and gluten-free flour for the coating.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I make Everything Cream Cheese Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and coat them with the breadcrumbs. Refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I substitute for the bagel crumbs?
If you don’t have bagels, you can use panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (like Ritz crackers) for a similar crispy coating.

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, Gouda, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different twist.

Can I make this dish with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe, providing a juicier and more tender result.

Conclusion

Everything Cream Cheese Chicken is a deliciously savory, cheesy, and crispy dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a family meal. The combination of creamy filling and crunchy bagel-coated exterior will satisfy your cravings for both flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your table!