Discover how to make Cream Cheese Chicken – rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Try this easy recipe today!
Cream Cheese Chicken – Rich, Creamy & Easy
If you’re looking for a delicious meal that’s creamy, satisfying, and straightforward to prepare, Cream Cheese Chicken – rich, creamy & easy delivers just that. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious cream cheese sauce to create a dinner classic that the whole family will love. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with simple sides like steamed veggies or rice, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love It
This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want comfort food without the fuss. The cream cheese adds a rich and velvety sauce without requiring heavy cream or long prep times. It’s also versatile, allowing for quick ingredient swaps. Plus, it keeps well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (use Neufchâtel for lower fat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Substitutions: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese to make it vegan (see variations). Use bone-in chicken thighs for a juicier result or gluten-free broth for dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning sauce over the top. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to reheat.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Pair with Easy Weeknight Dinners like rice or roasted vegetables.
Expert Tips
For the best Cream Cheese Chicken, make sure your cream cheese is softened; this helps the sauce blend smoothly without lumps. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness to avoid drying out the chicken. Want a thicker sauce? Add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water before adding cream cheese. For more recipe ideas, check out Creamy Chicken Recipes on our site.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the chicken with sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to preserve creaminess.
Variations
- Vegan: Use plant-based cream cheese and replace chicken with tofu or seitan.
- Gluten-Free: Confirm broth is gluten-free and avoid any thickeners with gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese.
- Low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed greens.
FAQ
Q: How do I make Cream Cheese Chicken – rich, creamy without it curdling?
A: Make sure to keep the heat low when melting cream cheese and adding broth, stirring gently to combine. Avoid boiling the sauce.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs will work and can add extra juiciness to the dish.
Q: What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?
A: This creamy chicken pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months.
Call to Action
Give this Cream Cheese Chicken – rich, creamy & easy recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to leave a comment, rate the recipe, and share it with your friends. For more comforting recipes, check out our Comfort Food collection.
For more inspiration and trusted cooking tips, visit Food Network.
