This Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy and tasty dish that’s super easy to make! With juicy chicken and smooth cream cheese, it’s a comforting meal your family will love.
You just cook the chicken, mix in the cream cheese, and let it simmer—simple peasy! I like to serve it with rice or pasta for a wonderful dinner that feels special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their ease and tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs instead. They’re juicy and flavorful!
Cream Cheese: This is what makes the dish so creamy! You can substitute it with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth adds depth to the dish. If you want a vegetarian alternative, vegetable broth works beautifully, too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but fresh is always best when you can get it!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Tender and Juicy?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be a bit tricky, but here are some tips:
- Don’t Overcook: Cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Brown it Right: Searing the chicken in a hot skillet first adds flavor and barrier, helping lock in moisture.
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking. This helps redistribute the juices, making each bite tender.
Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s ready for the chicken when you’re done searing it.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. This adds great flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn a nice golden brown. After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds or until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium and add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Chicken with Sauce:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the delicious sauce over the top. This will keep the chicken moist and flavorful!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the skillet out of the oven—you’ll be greeted with a wonderful aroma! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if you like, and serve your Cream Cheese Chicken warm alongside rice, pasta, or any of your favorite steamed veggies.
Enjoy your easy and tasty dinner!
FAQ about Cream Cheese Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking for even results. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker method.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well as a substitute for cream cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based alternative.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the chicken.
What Should I Serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even steamed vegetables. For a lighter side, consider a fresh salad or roasted veggies to balance out the creaminess!
