This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a tasty dish that’s perfect for dinner! Juicy chicken smothered in creamy cheese and spices makes every bite a delight. It’s so simple to make!
I love how quick it is to whip up—just cook the chicken, add the cream cheese, and let it melt into a gorgeous sauce. Dinner is ready in no time, and it tastes amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts work best for this dish since they cook evenly. You can use thighs for a juicier option or even swap in turkey cutlets if you prefer.
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the sauce! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. For a dairy-free version, use cashew cream, but adjust for consistency.
Chicken Broth: Any chicken broth will enhance flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth does the job well too. Homemade broth adds a personal touch!
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning bring a nice flavor to the dish. You can experiment with other spices like paprika or cumin for a different taste. Fresh herbs also work great if you have any on hand.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken breasts can be tricky, especially preventing them from drying out. Here are some tips for perfect chicken:
- Start with a medium-high heat to get a good sear, then lower the heat for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken is done at 165°F (75°C).
- Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy!
These steps will help you serve perfectly cooked chicken cloaked in that delicious cream cheese sauce every time! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried basil and oregano)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to serve up a delicious and creamy chicken dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This adds flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You can check this by cutting into one to make sure it’s no longer pink in the center. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate to keep warm.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the softened cream cheese and stir it around until it starts melting. This will create a creamy base for your sauce.
4. Add Broth and Cheese:
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to mix everything together and create a smooth sauce. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce starts to thicken a bit.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts back into the skillet. Spoon the delicious creamy sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer on low for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the cream cheese chicken hot with your choice of side dishes like rice, pasta, or veggies. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dinner!
FAQ for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely first for even cooking. You can thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. It’s essential to cook the chicken thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cream cheese sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just store both in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the chicken in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of broth to the sauce to keep it creamy.
What Other Side Dishes Pair Well with Cream Cheese Chicken?
This creamy chicken dish goes wonderfully with sides like rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter meal option!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. If needed, add a little chicken broth to thin it out.
