This Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and tasty dinner option! Juicy chicken breasts are cooked with creamy cheese and spices, making every bite comforting and full of flavor.
You can whip this up in no time, and it’s perfect served over rice or pasta. I like to add some veggies on the side for a colorful plate—because who doesn’t love a rainbow on their dinner table? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay moist. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or use turkey breasts for a leaner option.
Cream Cheese: The star of the dish! Regular cream cheese works wonderfully. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use low-fat cream cheese or Neufchâtel. For a dairy-free alternative, try a plant-based cream cheese.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon for 2 cloves). If you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to omit it or use shallots for a milder taste.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice salty kick. Grated Pecorino Romano is a tasty substitute, or you can use nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly option that lends a cheesy flavor.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this mix, you can use individual dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs are great too; just remember to use about three times more than dried.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Stay Juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, start by searing it properly. This locks in moisture and adds flavor. Use a medium-high heat to get that nice golden color on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. Just avoid cooking it too long at this stage, as you’ll finish it off in the oven.
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to let the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite stays tender.
Don’t forget to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; you want it to reach 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken!
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe for Easy Dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, you want to prepare your delicious cream cheese mixture.
2. Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well blended—this is going to make your chicken extra creamy!
3. Season the Chicken:
Next, season both sides of your chicken breasts with a bit of salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor while they cook.
4. Sear the Chicken:
Now, heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and sear them until they are golden brown, which should take about 3-4 minutes on each side. Searing not only adds flavor but also keeps them juicy!
5. Add the Cream Cheese Mixture:
Lower the heat to low and spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. This creates a delicious layer of flavor as it bakes.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color. Serve warm with your favorite sides, like steamed vegetables, fluffy rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
And there you have it! Enjoy your creamy and delicious Cream Cheese Chicken dinner!
FAQ for Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thoroughly thaw them before cooking. The best way to thaw is in the fridge overnight or, for a quicker method, in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Always pat them dry before seasoning for even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use mascarpone cheese for a similar creamy texture or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan alternative. Just ensure it’s softened for easy mixing!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if you want to restore some moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese mixture and season the chicken up to a day in advance. Just cover them and keep in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, sear the chicken and follow the baking instructions for a quick dinner!
