This Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and tasty dish you’ll love. All you need is chicken, cream cheese, and some simple spices for a creamy, flavorful meal that makes dinner a breeze!
I like to serve it with rice or veggies on the side. It’s so easy, I sometimes wonder if the chicken makes itself! 🐔✨ Perfect for those busy nights when cooking feels like a chore!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly. If you prefer, thighs can be used for a juicier result, and they’re often more affordable.
Cream cheese: This adds creaminess and a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese works well too! Alternative spreads like ricotta or Greek yogurt can also be nice substitutes.
Chicken broth: It keeps the dish moist and flavorful. Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt content. Vegetable broth is a great alternative if you want to keep it vegetarian.
Spices: Garlic, paprika, and onion powder are key to flavor. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist. Fresh garlic adds a punch, but garlic powder can work if you don’t have it.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy, start with a good sear. Heat your skillet before adding the chicken, so it gets a nice golden crust, sealing in moisture. Here’s how to do it:
- Season your chicken well before cooking. This enhances the flavor throughout.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed to allow proper searing.
- Always let the chicken rest after baking. This helps retain juices and makes for a more tender bite.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. Overall, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and simple dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so that it’s ready for the chicken when you’re done prepping.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and onion powder on both sides. This way, your chicken will be flavorful all the way through!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is nice and smooth. This creamy sauce is what will make the chicken delicious!
5. Combine and Bake:
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet, making sure each piece is well covered. Now it’s ready for the oven!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if you like, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides such as rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. The best way to thaw is overnight in the fridge or you can use the cold water method by placing the chicken in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Neufchâtel cheese, which is similar but contains less fat. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can provide a tangy flavor with a creamy texture, although it may alter the taste slightly. Just make sure it’s plain and unsweetened!
How Do I Store Leftover Cream Cheese Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or warm it gently on the stove while adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and the cream cheese mixture ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and bake them together when you’re ready to eat. This makes weeknight dinners even easier!
