This Cream Cheese Chicken is super simple and oh-so-tasty! Just juicy chicken breasts cooked with creamy cheese and your favorite seasonings. It’s comfort food on a plate!
I love making this on busy nights because it comes together quickly. Serve it with rice or veggies, and dinner is done. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here. If you want to switch things up, thighs work too for extra juiciness. You could even use tofu for a vegetarian option!
Cream Cheese: This adds that creamy texture and flavor. If you need a dairy-free substitute, try vegan cream cheese or cashew cream. Both options will keep it smooth!
Chicken Broth: It enhances the flavor of the cream sauce. If you’re short on broth, water with a bouillon cube works just fine. Homemade is the best if you have it!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred for a robust flavor. However, garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Just remember, it’s more concentrated, so use about 1/4 tsp instead.
How Do I Make Creamy Sauce Without Clumping?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce is key for this dish. Here’s how to do it without clumps:
- Cook the garlic in oil first, as this gives a nice flavor base.
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This helps it melt in easily.
- Whisk the cream cheese with the chicken broth until fully integrated. For extra smoothness, you can use a hand mixer!
- Always keep it on low to medium heat when combining everything; high heat can curdle the cream cheese.
Follow these tips and you’ll have a velvety sauce that coats your chicken perfectly!
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 packet (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried herbs
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish can be prepared in about 25-30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes seasoning and cooking the chicken, followed by about 15-20 minutes to make the creamy sauce and put everything together. Dinner is quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. Let it sit for a minute to absorb the flavors.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir well until the mixture is creamy and smooth without lumps.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the cream cheese sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. If you like, sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy touch!
5. Finish Cooking:
Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to blend flavors and the cheese (if added) to melt beautifully.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. Serve this delightful dish warm with rice, pasta, or your favorite steamed vegetables for a comforting dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the quick-thaw method by placing the chicken in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or use cashew cream. Simply blend soaked cashews with a little water for a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?
This creamy chicken pairs well with a variety of sides! Try serving it over rice, pasta, or quinoa. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also make great accompaniments!
