This Cream Cheese Chicken is a warm and creamy delight! Made with simple ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and spices, it’s a dish everyone will love.
I often whip this up for a cozy dinner, and it’s so easy that even my cat thinks she can help. Spoiler alert: she can’t! 😂 Serve it over rice or pasta for a yummy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe because it cooks quickly and stays juicy. If you have thighs on hand, those will work too—they’re even a bit more flavorful!
Cream Cheese: This is key for the creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Both will still give you that creamy goodness without the extra calories.
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have any, water will suffice, or even vegetable broth if you want a different taste. Just be mindful of the salt content!
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are fantastic for flavor. If you want to amp it up, add fresh minced garlic or onion instead. The smoked paprika adds a nice touch, but if you don’t have it, don’t worry; it still tastes great without it!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Searing first helps lock in juices. Don’t skip that step!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before slicing—this keeps it moist.
Enjoy the Cream Cheese Chicken as a go-to recipe that’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights or a relaxed weekend dinner! 🍽️
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lovely Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, in around 35-40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to have it nice and hot so the chicken cooks evenly!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This adds a lovely flavor throughout the chicken!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides—this should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step not only adds flavor but helps keep the chicken juicy!
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Now, remove the skillet from the heat. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the chicken broth until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture will make the chicken extra delicious!
5. Combine and Add to Oven:
Pour the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the skillet. If you’re using smoked paprika, sprinkle it on top now. Then, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is bubbly and inviting.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the skillet out of the oven (be careful, it’s hot!). Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your creamy Chicken over rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your creamy, delicious Cream Cheese Chicken that is comforting and oh-so-easy to make!
FAQ: Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator is best. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the chicken in cold water, sealed in a bag, for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works well in place of cream cheese for a tangy twist. Low-fat cream cheese is also a great substitute if you’re watching calories but want to keep that creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain its moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure you adjust cooking time if it’s coming from the fridge to avoid undercooking.
