Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with a creamy, zesty cheese sauce, delivering a delightful kick of spice. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this recipe is easy to make and pairs beautifully with various sides. Each bite is a delicious blend of flavors that will leave your guests wanting more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in the dish.
- In a bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, minced garlic, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Broil for a few minutes if you want crispy edges.
- Serve hot and drizzle with leftover sauce from the dish.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approximately 6 oz)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: For added flavor and moisture, consider using boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. You can also customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or swapping cheeses for different variations.