Name: Ultimate Cream Cheese Chicken: A Family Favourite Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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Are you craving a rich and creamy chicken dish that’s both flavorful and easy to make? Look no further than Cream Cheese Chicken! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a velvety, savory cream cheese sauce that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or serving guests, this recipe promises to impress. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy masterpiece in no time. Let’s dive into this comforting dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken

Before we get cooking, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Cream Cheese Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients, you’ll create a velvety and cheesy chicken dish that’s loaded with flavor and perfect for any occasion!

Preparation for Cream Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Make sure to evenly coat both sides of the chicken. This seasoning mix will give the chicken a delicious burst of flavor, preparing it perfectly for the creamy sauce to come.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan. Sear each side of the chicken for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This will create a crispy, flavorful exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Once the chicken is seared on both sides, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and add the chicken broth to the same skillet. The broth will help lift any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, ensuring you get all that flavor into the sauce. Stir in the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. The cream cheese will melt beautifully into the broth, creating a thick, velvety sauce. The Parmesan adds a touch of sharpness and saltiness, balancing the richness of the cream cheese.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken in the Creamy Sauce

Once your sauce is smooth, return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Pour the sauce generously over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly covered. Cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and the sauce has thickened to perfection. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. As the chicken simmers, the sauce will continue to develop, soaking into the chicken for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Once your chicken is fully cooked and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, it’s time to serve! Sprinkle the dish with fresh parsley (if using) for a pop of color and freshness. This optional garnish adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy sauce and makes the dish look even more inviting. Serve the Cream Cheese Chicken over your favorite sides, such as pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information for Cream Cheese Chicken

Before we dive into the serving suggestions, let’s take a look at the nutritional value of this creamy dish. Each serving of Cream Cheese Chicken contains approximately:

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 39g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

This dish is high in protein thanks to the chicken, while the cream cheese and Parmesan contribute healthy fats. It’s a relatively low-carb option, making it suitable for those following low-carb or ketogenic diets. To keep things balanced, serve it alongside vegetables or a whole-grain side to add fiber and nutrients.

Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

Cream Cheese Chicken is the ultimate weeknight dinner. With only a few ingredients and a quick cooking time of around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the creamy sauce is so flavorful, it will make everyone think you spent much longer preparing it!

A Crowd-Pleaser for Special Occasions

Looking to impress your guests at your next dinner party or family gathering? This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is sure to be a hit. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the tender chicken will have everyone coming back for seconds. Pair it with a crisp white wine or refreshing sparkling water to round off the experience.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about Cream Cheese Chicken is how easily it can be customized. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste. For instance, if you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce. You could also try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the creamy sauce for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The possibilities are endless!

Tips for Making the Perfect Cream Cheese Chicken

Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: For the creamiest sauce, make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. Cold cream cheese can cause the sauce to be lumpy and less smooth.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep your chicken juicy and tender, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and remove it from the skillet as soon as it’s done.
Customize the Sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the mixture. This will make the sauce even more indulgent and creamy. For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
Serve with Sides That Complement the Sauce: Since the sauce is rich and creamy, balance it out with lighter sides like steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple salad. You could also pair it with a serving of quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

FAQs About Cream Cheese Chicken

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they should be thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. If using frozen chicken, it may take a bit longer to cook through.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Parmesan cheese adds a unique flavor to the sauce, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Gouda. Keep in mind that different cheeses may change the texture and flavor of the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. If needed, add a bit of chicken broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this recipe in a slow cooker, season the chicken breasts as directed and place them in the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese, and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. The sauce will naturally thicken in the slow cooker, and you’ll have a hands-off, delicious meal ready to go!

What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables. The creamy sauce is rich and flavorful, so serve it with something light to balance out the richness.

Conclusion: A Dish You’ll Keep Coming Back To

Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious, creamy, and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. The tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s easy to make and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion, this dish will impress your guests and satisfy your hunger. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness in every bite. So, why not give it a try today?

If you’re craving more delicious chicken recipes, check out these favorites:

Now it’s your turn to experience the creamy goodness of Cream Cheese Chicken. Enjoy!

Ultimate Cream Cheese Chicken: A Family Favourite Dish

Author: Amelia Sullivan
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, savory dish that will soon be your go-to comfort food. With a rich cream cheese sauce and perfectly seared chicken, it’s a meal that’s quick to prepare but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Serve it over pasta, rice, or roasted veggies for a complete, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Stir in the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the creamy sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot. Pair with pasta, rice, or your favorite veggies for a complete meal.