This Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple dish that’s creamy and full of flavor. With just chicken, cream cheese, and a few spices, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time!
I love how it feels like a warm hug on a plate! Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ll be asking for seconds—trust me, it’s that good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts keep this dish easy and hassle-free. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and more moisture.
Cream Cheese: The star of the dish! It creates that creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cream cheese or cashew cream for a similar result.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltability, but cheddar works well too for a sharper flavor. For a lower-fat option, use a reduced-fat cheese.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the sauce. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, or even water if you’re in a pinch — just season more to make up for the lack of flavor.
Seasonings: Feel free to switch thyme with herbs like rosemary or basil for a different twist. Fresh herbs are always great when available for a burst of flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here are tips to avoid dry, overcooked meat:
- Use a meat thermometer – chicken should reach 165°F internally.
- Cook on medium heat. This prevents the outside from burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
Checking the chicken is key; allow it to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices!
How to Make Easy and Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides to add flavor. This will help ensure every bite is delicious!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir the mixture well until the cream cheese has melted and you’ve created a smooth and creamy sauce.
4. Add Herbs and Cheese:
Now, add the dried thyme or Italian seasoning to the sauce and stir to combine everything. If you’re using shredded cheese, sprinkle it in now and mix until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon some of that delicious sauce over them, and let everything simmer together for about 2-3 minutes. This helps the chicken soak up the flavors and reheats it nicely!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once everything is well combined, garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve this creamy chicken over some rice, pasta, or alongside steamed vegetables for a wonderfully comforting meal!
Enjoy your delightful Easy and Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge, or for a quicker option, place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Then, follow the recipe as usual.
What If I Don’t Have Cream Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. Alternatively, make a cream sauce using heavy cream or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream for a similar creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! For a little kick, add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to the seasoning when preparing the chicken. You can also mix in some hot sauce into the creamy sauce for extra heat!
