This Cream Cheese Chicken is a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty dinner! It’s super simple to make with chicken, cream cheese, and some spices for flavor. Yum!
I love how creamy and comforting this dish is! Plus, it cooks up in no time, leaving you more moments to relax after a busy day. Enjoy it with rice or pasta for a full meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook evenly. If you need a substitute, chicken thighs work well too for a juicier option. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives a rich, creamy texture to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use cream cheese with lower fat. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can work, but it will alter the taste slightly.
Chicken Broth: I like using low sodium chicken broth to control the salt level. Vegetable broth is a good substitute if making the dish vegetarian, or you can use water in a pinch.
Spices: The garlic and onion powder add depth of flavor. Feel free to mix and match herbs or add a bit of Italian seasoning or dried thyme for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Searing Chicken?
Searing your chicken adds wonderful flavor and a beautiful golden crust. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough. You should hear a sizzle when the chicken hits the pan.
- Add the oil or butter just before the chicken goes in to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Sear in batches if necessary to maintain that crispy exterior.
- Be patient! Let the chicken develop a nice crust before flipping it. If it sticks, it’s not ready to turn.
By following these tips, you’ll have juicy, delicious chicken that makes your Cream Cheese Chicken even more delightful!
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, making a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and perfectly.
2. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend adds amazing flavor to the chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and rub the spice mixture evenly on both sides. This will give the chicken a delicious taste.
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until the chicken is golden brown.
5. Add Cream Cheese:
After searing, remove the skillet from heat. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over each chicken breast. This will create a creamy layer that adds richness to the dish.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken, being careful not to pour it directly over the cream cheese. This will help keep the chicken moist as it bakes.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven. If you like, garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy with your favorite sides like rice, steamed veggies, or mashed potatoes!
This Cream Cheese Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken is by leaving it in the fridge overnight or using the microwave’s defrost setting if you’re short on time.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and coating in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble and follow the remaining steps from the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Substitute Cream Cheese in This Recipe?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Keep in mind that this may change the flavor and texture slightly, but it will still be delicious!
