Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines the succulent flavor of seared chicken with a luscious, savory cream cheese sauce. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and seared until golden brown, then simmered in a creamy sauce that brings everything together in a simple yet delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress with its smooth texture and mouthwatering flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is perfect for those nights when you want a comforting yet easy-to-make dinner. The cream cheese sauce is velvety and indulgent, making it the ideal complement to the juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken. The addition of Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning enhances the flavor of the sauce, while the chicken remains tender and moist. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a great choice for a weeknight dinner that will feel like a treat. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking method, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil or butter
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper
• Cream cheese (softened)
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

• Herb Flavor: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the sauce for a fragrant, earthy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Try adding a blend of mozzarella or cheddar cheese along with Parmesan for a different cheese profile.
• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in the skillet along with the chicken for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese begins to melt and soften. Gradually whisk in chicken broth to create a smooth sauce. Continue to stir until the sauce is silky and well combined.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become creamy.

Step 4: Return Chicken to the Skillet

Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks to prevent it from becoming dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Cream Cheese Temperature: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet for smoother melting and easier incorporation into the sauce.
• Customizing the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and cheese to your liking, adding more garlic powder or substituting different herbs.

How to Serve

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like buttery mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over pasta or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For an extra treat, serve it with some warm, crusty bread to dip into the sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Easy Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to rehydrate the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure the sauce remains smooth.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work perfectly in this recipe. They may require a little longer to cook but will add extra flavor and moisture.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

If you prefer, you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or any other mild cheese in place of Parmesan for a different flavor.

4. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Simply reheat it and cook the chicken when you’re ready to serve.

7. What should I serve this with?

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

8. Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes instead of cooking it on the stovetop. Prepare the sauce on the stovetop and pour it over the chicken before baking.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to serve a larger group. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for larger quantities.

10. Can I make the sauce without chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth, milk, or even water in place of the broth for the sauce.

Conclusion

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and delicious meal that combines the creamy richness of cream cheese with savory, seasoned chicken. The recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting, satisfying dish that everyone will love. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a hearty meal that’s both easy to make and hard to resist.

Print