Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe: A Quick, Creamy, and Delicious Dinner Idea
Looking for a simple yet indulgent dinner recipe that your whole family will love? This Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is the answer! With tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. In this article, we’ll share the step-by-step recipe, tips for success, and creative variations to make this dish your own.
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Creamy and Comforting: The luscious cream cheese sauce is irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Chicken Breasts: 2 large, boneless, and skinless.
Cream Cheese: 8 oz (1 block), softened for easy blending.
Chicken Broth: 1 cup, to create the base of the sauce.
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for a flavorful punch.
Onion Powder: 1 tsp, for added depth.
Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp, to enhance the savory profile.
Olive Oil: 2 tbsp, for cooking the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Optional Add-Ins:
Spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Make the Cream Cheese Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Reduce the heat to low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce.
Combine and Simmer:
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy chicken over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Cream Cheese Chicken
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it juicy.
Customize the Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Creative Variations to Try
Crockpot Cream Cheese Chicken: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for an effortless meal.
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Keto-Friendly: Serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and add extra juiciness to the dish.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I freeze cream cheese chicken?
Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well while reheating to restore its creamy texture.
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Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!