Name: Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 cup chicken broth; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 small onion, diced; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Salt and pepper, to taste

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Cream Cheese Chicken is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious cream cheese sauce. It’s a recipe perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Bursting with flavor from a combination of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and spices, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, making it both versatile and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal preparation, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs creates a decadent sauce that elevates plain chicken into something extraordinary.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors, add vegetables, or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
One-Pan Meal: With minimal cleanup required, this recipe is as practical as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cream cheese
Chicken broth
Minced garlic
Olive oil
Butter
Onion
Paprika
Italian seasoning
Fresh parsley
Salt
Pepper

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese. Allow it to melt slightly, then gradually add chicken broth while stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
Season the Sauce: Add Italian seasoning, a dash of paprika, and more salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and let the chicken simmer for 10–15 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh pop of flavor and serve hot with your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make this a complete meal.
Use Different Proteins: Substitute the chicken with turkey breast, pork chops, or even salmon for a unique twist.
Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne for a hint of heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut milk instead of traditional cream cheese and chicken broth.
Herb Swaps: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy. Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between each interval.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe and provide extra juiciness.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.

4. Can I freeze Cream Cheese Chicken?

While it’s possible to freeze, the cream cheese sauce may separate upon thawing. For best results, consume fresh.

5. What sides pair best with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted vegetables make excellent pairings.

6. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but the sauce may be less rich. Regular cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is gluten-free. Just ensure your chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

8. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! A splash of white wine adds depth to the sauce. Let it simmer before adding the chicken broth.

9. How do I thicken the sauce if needed?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes until it thickens to your liking.

10. What can I do if the sauce curdles?

To fix curdled sauce, whisk in a small amount of cream or butter over low heat until it smooths out.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and versatility make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home. Give this recipe a try, and it’s bound to become a favorite in your household!

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