Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Cream Cheese Chicken is a delicious and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, flavorful cream cheese sauce. This dish is known for its smooth texture and savoury taste, often enhanced with seasonings like garlic, onion powder, and herbs.

The cream cheese melts into a rich sauce that coats the chicken, making each bite moist and flavorful. It’s an easy-to-make meal that can be prepared in less than an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love Cream Cheese Chicken

Quick and Easy to Make: Cream cheese chicken comes together quickly, making it a great choice for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly: The mild, creamy flavour is often a hit with kids, making it an ideal family meal everyone will enjoy.

Filling and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and richness from the cream cheese, it’s a well-rounded meal that keeps you full and satisfied.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken

To make a flavorful Cream Cheese Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and remain juicy when combined with the creamy sauce.
• Cheese: Cream cheese is the star of the dish, providing a rich, smooth texture. You can also add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for extra flavour.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth to the sauce and ensures the chicken remains moist while cooking.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken, giving it a nice sear and adding flavour.
• Garlic Powder: Brings a subtle, savoury kick to the dish.
• Onion Powder: Enhances the flavour profile, providing a mild sweetness and earthiness.
• Paprika: Adds a smoky flavour and a vibrant colour to the dish.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and balancing all the flavours.
• Parsley (for garnish): Fresh parsley adds a pop of colour and a fresh, herbal note to the finished dish.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavours, cutting through the richness of the cream cheese and chicken.

How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cream Cheese Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional for added zest)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Cream Cheese Chicken:

1. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Combine: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the cream cheese sauce over the top. Let it simmer for five more minutes to allow the chicken to absorb some of the flavours.
5. Garnish: Before serving, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a zesty touch, and garnish with chopped parsley.
6. Serve and enjoy: Plate the chicken and pour the creamy sauce on top. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavours!

 Cream Cheese Chicken Variation

You can make Cream Cheese Chicken in many different ways. Here are some popular variations to try:

• Spinach and Artichoke: Add cooked spinach and chopped artichokes to the sauce for a creamy, veggie-packed twist.
• Bacon: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it over the top of the chicken for a smoky flavour.
• Mushroom: Sauté mushrooms and mix them into the cream cheese sauce for a rich, earthy addition.
• Herbs and Spices: Change the flavour profile by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. You can also experiment with different spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

These variations allow you to customize the dish to fit your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. You can even add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra colour and nutrition.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream Cheese Chicken can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• With Rice or Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or mashed potatoes to soak up all the flavours.
• Pasta: For a hearty meal, serve the chicken over a bed of pasta. Penne or spaghetti works well.
• As a Wrap: You can also use the chicken as a filling for a wrap, adding some lettuce and tomatoes for crunch.
• With a Salad: Pair the creamy chicken with a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Bread: Serve the chicken with warm, crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative with how you present this dish!

Storage Tips

Cream Cheese Chicken stores well if you need leftovers or want to prepare it in advance. Here are some storage tips:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• In the Freezer: If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: When reheating, do so gently. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if the sauce seems too thick.

FAQs About Cream Cheese Chicken