Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken
Spicy Southern Cheesy Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and a creamy, spicy cheese sauce infused with Southern flavors. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, delivering rich, zesty goodness that will have everyone coming back for more. With its delightful combination of spices and cheesy richness, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
- 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 (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar cheese, hot sauce, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over it.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow to rest briefly before serving; drizzle with extra hot sauce if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, sear the chicken in the skillet before baking. - Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or add vegetables like bell peppers for nutrition. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently.