This Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple yet tasty dish. It features juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce that makes every bite comfy and warm.
I love how quick this meal comes together—just a few ingredients and you’re set! Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a dinner that feels special without the hassle!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. You can swap them out for thighs or even turkey for a different flavor and texture.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Neufchâtel cheese or a plant-based cream cheese if you’re dairy-free.
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought works too. For a vegetarian version, vegetable broth can substitute well.
Heavy Cream: It provides a luscious texture. If you want to cut calories, half-and-half or coconut milk can be good substitutes, keeping in mind they may change the flavor a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings vibrant flavor. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder, but fresh really does elevate the dish.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy chicken is all about the preparation and cooking technique. Start by seasoning the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices before searing them.
- Heat oil until it shimmers before adding the chicken, which helps achieve that golden crust.
- Sear evenly, giving about 4-5 minutes on each side. This not only cooks the chicken but locks in moisture.
- After removing the chicken, don’t rush! Sauté garlic in the same pan to build flavor with those tasty bits left behind.
Always check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C), guaranteeing it’s cooked thoroughly.
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 35-40 minutes to cook and bake. You’ll have a delightful meal ready in about 50 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready for your chicken when you’re done cooking on the stove!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season both chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear each side for about 4-5 minutes until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for now.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until you smell that delicious garlic aroma. Next, carefully pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to get any tasty bits stuck on there. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add Cream Cheese and Heavy Cream:
Now, add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and add a bit more salt and pepper if you like.
5. Cook the Chicken with the Sauce:
Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon some of that yummy sauce over the top. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the chicken continue cooking while soaking up all that flavor!
6. Bake in the Oven:
Now it’s time to bake! Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. A quick check with a meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, take the skillet out and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot, drizzled in the creamy sauce over rice, pasta, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious Cream Cheese Chicken!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even plain Greek yogurt. If using Greek yogurt, stir it in after removing the skillet from heat to prevent curdling. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth, or even water mixed with a bit of salt for extra flavor. If you have white wine on hand, that could also be a delightful addition to enhance the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, you should thaw the chicken before cooking for even results. Thaw frozen chicken by leaving it in the fridge overnight, or for quick thawing, place it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 1-2 hours.
