Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken is a tantalizing dish that marries tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions, offering a delightful flavor experience that will keep family and friends coming back for more. With its crispy golden top and mouthwatering aroma, it’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration of Southern comfort food.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth; stir in half of the cheddar cheese.
- Place seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the creamy mixture evenly over it. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let rest briefly before garnishing with green onions and serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. - Swap cheeses or add veggies like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flair. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat at 350°F until warm.