This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a super tasty dish that comes together quickly! Juicy chicken cooked with creamy cheese and few spices makes it a hit at the dinner table.
Honestly, this meal feels like a warm hug on a plate! I love pairing it with rice or veggies for a complete dinner. It’s so simple that even I can whip it up after a busy day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless is perfect here for easy cooking and serving. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider chicken thighs—they’re juicier! You can also use frozen chicken; just ensure to adjust the cooking time.
Cream Cheese: This gives a rich and creamy texture. If you’re watching calories, use light cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. You could also try sour cream if you want more creaminess.
Cheese: I often add mozzarella or cheddar for extra cheesiness! If you’re dairy-free, consider using a vegan cream cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika offer flavor without extra fuss. Feel free to swap in Italian seasoning or even lemon zest for a fresh kick!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
The secret to juicy chicken lies in properly searing and cooking it. Don’t rush this step!
- Start by heating your skillet with olive oil until hot.
- Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side. This locks in the moisture.
- After adding the cream cheese mixture, baking it finishes the cooking without drying it out. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Resting the chicken for a few minutes after baking also helps keep it juicy before serving! Enjoy your meal!
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 25 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick way to prepare a delicious dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be nice and hot when your chicken is ready to go in!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This will give the chicken delicious flavor when cooked.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step locks in the juices and flavor!
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and chicken broth until you have a smooth, creamy consistency. This will create the delicious sauce for your chicken!
5. Combine and Cook:
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the seared chicken breasts in the skillet. Make sure to cover them well! If you like extra cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top of the chicken at this stage.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer your skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The sauce should be bubbly and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Easy Cream Cheese Chicken dinner!
FAQ for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but it’s essential to thaw the chicken completely before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for quicker results. Once thawed, proceed with the recipe as directed.
How Can I Adjust the Recipe for a Lower-Carb Option?
To lower the carbs, serve the chicken with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad instead of rice or pasta. You can also skip the optional shredded cheese to reduce calories further while still enjoying the creamy sauce!
What Should I Do with Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream cheese to keep it creamy if needed!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture ahead of time. Just store the seasoned chicken in the fridge and mix the cream cheese and broth separately. When you’re ready to cook, follow the searing and baking steps as usual.
