This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy and comforting dish that comes together in no time! Just tender chicken made even more delicious with cream cheese and seasonings.
I love how quick it is to make, perfect for busy nights. Just cook the chicken, mix in that creamy goodness, and serve it with rice or veggies. Your taste buds will thank you! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook evenly and stay tender. If you have thighs on hand, they work well too; just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.
Cream Cheese: This is the star that makes the sauce creamy. If you need a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese. For a dairy-free alternative, try cashew cream or a non-dairy cream cheese.
Chicken Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish from being too salty. You could substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or homemade broth if you have it for an extra flavor punch.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives the dish a nice flavor boost. If you’re out, try using Romano or Pecorino cheese. Nutritional yeast can be a great dairy-free substitute that adds a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- If you’re unsure, cut a piece open and make sure it’s no longer pink inside.
Taking these steps will help you achieve that perfect tender chicken in your creamy sauce.
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and effortless dinner option. In total, you’re looking at about 30-35 minutes from start to finish, which is perfect for weeknight meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to coat them well so they get full flavor while cooking!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the softened cream cheese. Stir it gently until it melts and becomes creamy. Next, slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuing to stir. This will help create a smooth and rich sauce. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and the Italian seasoning, stirring until everything is well combined.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, and use a spoon to drizzle the creamy sauce over them. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the Easy Cream Cheese Chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if you like. This dish is delicious served alongside rice, pasta, or your favorite vegetables. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, or to speed things up, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning!
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a simple salad or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to retain creaminess if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese or cashew cream. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy!
