This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a super tasty dish! It features tender chicken cooked with creamy cheese, garlic, and your favorite spices. It’s simple to make and perfect for dinner.
I love how quickly this one comes together, making it a lifesaver on busy nights. Serve it over rice or with veggies for a complete meal. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for tenderness. If you prefer dark meat, boneless thighs can be a delicious substitute. Just adjust cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dish a rich flavor. If you’re looking for lower fat options, Neufchâtel cheese works well. Vegan cream cheese can also be used for a dairy-free version!
Chicken Broth: Use homemade or store-bought chicken broth for moisture. Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian dish. You can even add a little white wine for extra flavor.
Italian Seasoning: This adds a lovely mix of herbs. If you don’t have it, you can combine dried basil, oregano, and thyme instead. Fresh herbs are also a great option for brighter flavor!
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep the chicken juicy, searing before baking is key. This step helps seal in moisture. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-high heat to get a nice golden crust, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece room to sear well.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—look for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
Finally, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute for extra tenderness!
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or mixed herbs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and about 20-25 minutes for cooking, making it a wonderful option for a quick weeknight dinner. Overall, you can expect to spend around 35-40 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake the chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian seasoning on both sides. This will add great flavor to your chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. After searing, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir the mixture until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Combine and Bake:
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the creamy sauce over the top of each piece. This will enhance the flavor as it bakes. Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Optionally, sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color. Serve your creamy chicken hot with your favorite sides like rice, pasta, or vegetables!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Easy Cream Cheese Chicken dinner! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, it’s crucial to thaw it completely first. You can do this by letting it sit in the refrigerator overnight or submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw.
Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese or cashew cream for a similar consistency. Just ensure that the chicken broth is also dairy-free, and you’re good to go!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
What Can I Serve with Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a lighter option!
