This Cream Cheese Chicken dish is a winner for busy nights! Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in creamy, cheesy goodness that’s both comforting and easy to make.
I love how it only takes a few simple steps, making dinner a breeze. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ve got a delicious meal in no time—perfect for any weeknight! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this dish. You can substitute with boneless thighs for a juicier option, or even use tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Cream Cheese: The star of the dish! If you need a lower-fat option, you might try Neufchâtel cheese which is similar but has less fat. For dairy-free, a vegan cream cheese works well too.
Cheeses: I use mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for its sharp flavor. If you’re out of them, feel free to use any melty cheese like cheddar or gouda, but the flavor may change slightly.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning adds great flavor. If you like bold tastes, mix in some red pepper flakes or garlic powder. Fresh herbs can also enhance the dish!
How Do You Get the Chicken Just Right?
Getting juicy chicken requires a few steps. First, don’t skip browning the chicken in oil; it adds flavor and locks in moisture. Make sure to not overcook it in the skillet. It should be golden, not fully cooked. Once it’s in the oven, the cream cheese mix will keep it moist.
- Preheat your oven properly—this ensures even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the baking time; 20-25 minutes should be enough for chicken breasts, but check with a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) is the perfect internal temp.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked, flavorful Cream Cheese Chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Optional: 1/2 cup spinach, chopped
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cream Cheese Chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, expect this easy dinner to be ready in about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight meal when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to cook the chicken evenly and get that beautiful, bubbly topping.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides. This will add flavor and make each bite delicious!
3. Brown the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and brown them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Note: They don’t have to be fully cooked at this stage. Just get that nice color! Once done, remove them from the heat.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. If you’re adding spinach, toss that in too! Mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place the browned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Take the creamy mixture and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Make sure they’re well-covered for maximum flavor!
6. Bake and Finish:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, and the topping will be bubbly and golden. You can check if the chicken is done by making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. Serve this creamy, cheesy goodness with your choice of sides like steamed veggies, rice, or potatoes, and enjoy your meal!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy chicken dinner that’s both comforting and straightforward!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, you’ll need to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the refrigerator overnight or you can use the quick method by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute. For a dairy-free alternative, try a vegan cream cheese. Both will give a similar creamy texture, but the flavor might differ slightly, so adjust your seasonings as needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add various vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini to the creamy mixture for additional flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them small enough so they’ll cook through in the baking time.
