Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh raspberries (substitute with frozen, thawed and drained if needed)
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
When I first made this recipe with Ouma, we didn’t have fresh raspberries on hand, so we used frozen. It worked beautifully—just be sure to drain them well to avoid extra moisture. If you prefer less heat, reduce the jalapeno quantity or remove the seeds entirely. Mama Lou always said, “Make it your own; that’s where the love lives.”
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, chopped jalapenos, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture over each chicken breast, making sure to cover evenly.
- Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the fresh raspberries over and around the chicken, letting their juices mingle as they bake.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness.
One of my favorite memories with Mama Lou was watching her carefully layer ingredients to build flavor and texture. She always said, “Take your time, Sofia, good food is made with patience.” Even though this recipe is simple, those little touches—like letting the chicken rest to seal in juices—make all the difference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
