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Melt-In-Your-Mouth Keto Cream Cheese Chicken - Comforting, Simple, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds), or thighs if you prefer dark meat
  • Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
  • Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (adds tang and silkiness)
  • Heavy cream: 1/4 cup (thins the sauce slightly)
  • Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, finely grated
  • Shredded cheese: 1 cup mozzarella, provolone, or a blend
  • Garlic: 2–3 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Onion powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1 teaspoon (smoked or sweet)
  • Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon (or dried oregano and basil)
  • Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (brightens the sauce)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives: for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven and pan: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken dry. Season both sides with 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Drizzle with oil and rub to coat.
  3. Optional quick sear: For extra flavor, sear the chicken in a hot skillet (2–3 minutes per side) just to get light color. Not required, but it adds depth.
  4. Make the cream cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, heavy cream, Parmesan, garlic, remaining paprika and onion powder, Italian seasoning, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth.
  5. Assemble: Arrange chicken in the baking dish in a single layer. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle shredded cheese over everything.
  6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–35 minutes, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part and the top is bubbling and lightly golden.
  7. Broil for color (optional): Turn the broiler on high for 1–2 minutes to get a deeper golden top. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Rest and garnish: Let it rest 5 minutes so the sauce settles. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
  9. Serve: Spoon chicken and sauce over cauliflower rice, sautéed spinach, roasted broccoli, or zucchini noodles.