This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and creamy delight that you can whip up in no time! Juicy chicken is cooked with a rich cream cheese sauce that makes every bite yummy.
What I love about this dish is how simple it is. Just throw everything together, and you’ve got a tasty meal! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to cook and tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the dish! For a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat. You can also try dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.
Chicken Broth: You can use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth. Homemade broth works great too! If you don’t have broth, water can work in a pinch, but it won’t have as much flavor.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning add fantastic flavor. Feel free to substitute these with fresh herbs or other spices you love, like paprika or thyme, to make it your own!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is key to this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with even thickness: You can pound the chicken to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Cook the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Use a meat thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Let it rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps retain juices.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or chives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, so in total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick dinner that delivers delicious flavor without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This will help build a lovely flavor right from the start!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Be sure to scrape up any tasty browned bits from the bottom. This adds even more flavor to your sauce!
4. Add the Cream Cheese:
Lower the heat a bit, then add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. This is what makes the dish so luscious!
5. Combine and Heat Through:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon some of that delicious cream cheese sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is hot and bubbling, garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if you like. Serve this creamy chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, pasta, or vegetables, and enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ: Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or quickly by placing it in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat dry before seasoning.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and make the cream cheese sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option.
