This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a cozy dinner treat! With tender chicken and creamy cheese, it’s super simple and packed with flavor. Plus, it only takes a few ingredients!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their convenience. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs, which are juicier. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the dish! If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Neufchâtel cheese. It has a similar taste with less fat. For a dairy-free alternative, try vegan cream cheese!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds great flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it, but store-bought works just as well! For a low-sodium option, choose a low-sodium broth, or replace it with water if needed.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but it’s easy when you follow these steps! Getting a nice golden color is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Heat your skillet on medium heat, and make sure the oil or butter is hot before adding the chicken to avoid sticking.
- Cook each side for 6-7 minutes, flipping only once to develop a golden crust.
- To check for doneness, cut into the thickest part—the juices should run clear and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
By following these tips, you’ll achieve juicy and perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, take the chicken breasts and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika on both sides. This will give it lots of flavor!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This will create a delicious sauce that complements the chicken!
4. Add the Herbs:
If you want to add more flavor, toss in the dried Italian herbs or parsley and mix well into the sauce.
5. Combine the Chicken with the Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and gently spoon the creamy sauce over them. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 3-5 minutes, so it gets warm and soaks up some of that delicious flavor.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top of the chicken for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy it with your favorite side such as rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables!
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. To thaw quickly, place the chicken in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about 1-2 hours. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter option. Alternatively, use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, though it won’t create the same creamy texture. Just add the substitutes at the same stage as you would cream cheese!
How Do I Store Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli to the skillet when making the cream sauce. This not only adds color and nutrition but also enhances the overall flavor!
