Cream Cheese Chicken delivers a rich, creamy flavor perfect for any meal. Enjoy this easy recipe that’s both comforting and delicious. Try it today!
Cream Cheese Chicken – Rich, Creamy
If you love creamy and comforting meals, this Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite. It offers a rich texture with simple ingredients, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce melds beautifully with tender chicken breasts, making every bite delightful.
Why You’ll Love It
This recipe is a quick and straightforward way to enjoy a rich, creamy chicken dish. The sauce is luscious without being overly heavy, making it suitable for both family dinners and special occasions. Plus, it pairs well with lots of sides like rice, pasta, or steamed veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (substitute with thighs if preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (can use avocado or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional fresh minced garlic)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (use vegan cream cheese for dairy-free)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (try cheddar or provolone)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 5 to 7 minutes per side.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken in the skillet. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning on top.
- Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce becomes bubbly.
- Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
For more comforting dinner ideas, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners or explore how to make dishes ahead with our Meal Prep Recipes.
Expert Tips
For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F. If the sauce thickens too much, add extra chicken broth to loosen it. This recipe scales well; simply double the ingredients for larger groups. You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge, then cook the chicken when ready.
Storage
Store leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well—pack portions into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove or microwave.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based cream cheese, vegan cheese alternatives, and tofu or seitan instead of chicken.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you verify all ingredients. Avoid Italian seasoning blends with fillers.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use nutritional yeast instead of cheeses.
- Low-Carb: Serve without sides or with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
FAQ
- What is Cream Cheese Chicken? Cream Cheese Chicken is a dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy sauce made primarily from cream cheese and broth, offering rich flavor and texture.
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but thaw it fully before cooking for best results to ensure even cooking.
- What sides go best with Cream Cheese Chicken? Try rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or steamed greens for a balanced meal.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely! Prepare the sauce ahead and cook chicken fresh or reheat leftovers for quick meals.
We’d love to hear your feedback! Please comment, rate, and share this recipe if you enjoyed it.