Cream Cheese Chicken

Introduction

Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, savory sauce made from cream cheese and seasonings. The cream cheese adds a velvety texture and a tangy richness that perfectly complements the chicken, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

I first made this dish when I was looking for something simple yet indulgent, and it quickly became a go-to in my recipe rotation. The sauce is easy to make, and it coats the chicken beautifully, making each bite creamy and delicious. What’s great about this dish is its versatility—you can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing dinner ready in no time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a small dinner party, Cream Cheese Chicken is sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Family meals
• Dinner parties
• Comfort food lovers
• Meal prepping

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken

Here’s why this recipe will become your new favorite:

• Creamy and Rich Flavor: The cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that makes each bite of chicken incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cook time, this dish is perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
• Tender Chicken: The chicken stays moist and juicy thanks to the cream cheese sauce, which helps to lock in the chicken’s natural moisture.
• Customizable: You can add different herbs, vegetables, or even a splash of wine to the sauce to personalize this dish to your liking.
• One-Pan Meal: This is a one-pan recipe, meaning less cleanup after cooking.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make this recipe:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Cream Cheese: The cream cheese is the star ingredient in this recipe, adding a rich and creamy texture to the sauce while balancing the savory flavors of the chicken.
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most convenient and quick-cooking choice for this dish, though thighs can also be used for a richer flavor.
• Chicken Broth: The chicken broth helps to thin out the cream cheese and form a smooth sauce that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, and black pepper create a deliciously fragrant sauce that complements the richness of the cream cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this recipe:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Make the Cream Cheese Sauce:

3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, and black pepper. Stir to combine, cooking for about 1 minute to allow the spices to release their aroma.
4. Add the Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it begins to melt and form a smooth sauce.
5. Add Chicken Broth: Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to incorporate the cream cheese into the broth and create a smooth sauce. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine and Serve:

6. Add the Chicken Back: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, ensuring it is well coated and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is fully coated in the sauce, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley (optional) and serve immediately.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream Cheese Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• With Rice or Pasta: Serve the chicken and creamy sauce over a bed of steamed rice or pasta to soak up the rich sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair with roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it on a bed of greens for a light and creamy chicken salad.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce also pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, making for a comforting and hearty meal.

Additional Tips for Cream Cheese Chicken

Here are some tips to ensure this recipe is perfect every time:

• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: For the best flavor and creamy texture, use full-fat cream cheese. Low-fat options may not provide the same richness.
• Add More Veggies: You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, simply add more chicken broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked, as this can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a bit of heat.

Recipe Variations for Cream Cheese Chicken

Here are 10 variations you can try for this recipe:

• Garlic Parmesan Cream Cheese Chicken: Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a cheesy twist.
• Lemon Herb Cream Cheese Chicken: Stir in the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a fresh, tangy flavor.
• Spinach and Artichoke Cream Cheese Chicken: Add spinach and canned or jarred artichoke hearts to the sauce for a creamy, hearty variation.
• Mushroom Cream Cheese Chicken: Stir in sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken: Add Cajun seasoning to the sauce for a spicy, bold version of the dish.
• Bacon Cream Cheese Chicken: Top the chicken with crumbled crispy bacon for an added crunch and flavor.
• Cream Cheese Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a tangy, Mediterranean flair.
• Pesto Cream Cheese Chicken: Stir in some pesto sauce into the cream cheese for a burst of basil flavor.
• Cheddar Cream Cheese Chicken: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for a cheesy, indulgent twist.
• Low-Carb Cream Cheese Chicken: Serve with a cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Cream Cheese Chicken

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing this recipe easier:

• Skillet or Pan: A large skillet or sauté pan is ideal for searing the chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
• Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfect doneness.
• Wooden Spoon or Whisk: A wooden spoon or whisk is great for stirring the sauce and scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
• Serving Platter or Plates: Serve your creamy chicken on a large platter or individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cream Cheese Chicken

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs work well for this dish and will add extra flavor and moisture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute dairy-free cream cheese and butter to make the dish dairy-free. Use a plant-based broth for additional flavor.
3. Can I cook this in the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook the chicken in the slow cooker with the cream cheese and seasonings for 4-6 hours on low. The chicken will be incredibly tender.
4. What should I serve with this dish?
   This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.

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Conclusion

This recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the richness of cream cheese with the tender juiciness of chicken. The creamy sauce is easy to make and transforms the chicken into a comforting, savory meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With endless possibilities for variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe is as quick to prepare as it is delicious, making it a great choice for everything from busy weeknights to special dinner gatherings. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it solo, this recipe will definitely hit the spot.

I’d love to see how this recipe turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!