Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 ounces shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ¾ cup marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
- ½ tablespoon essence seasoning (see note)
Topping
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
Garnish & Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Baguette slices, for serving
- Crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F to prepare for baking the dip.
- Mix Cheeses and Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese using a spoon until well mixed. Add the shredded cooked chicken, marinara sauce, and essence seasoning to the bowl, and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the combined mixture to an 8×8 inch square baking dish, spreading it into an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.
- Make Topping: In a medium bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and dried basil until the breadcrumbs are moistened evenly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken cheese mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake Dip: Bake in the preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until the cheese is completely melted and the edges of the dip are bubbling.
- Broil for Crispiness: Increase your oven to the broil setting and broil the dip for 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully until the breadcrumb topping turns golden brown. Avoid burning.
- Rest and Garnish: Carefully remove the dip from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
- Serve: Serve warm with baguette slices and crackers for dipping and enjoy your cheesy, flavorful appetizer.
Notes
- Essence seasoning is a versatile seasoning blend; you can substitute with Italian seasoning or a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- If marinara sauce is too watery, consider reducing it over low heat before adding.
- Keep a close eye when broiling to prevent burning the breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American