This Cream Cheese Chicken is a tasty and simple dinner option! Just cook some chicken and mix it with creamy cheese, spices, and herbs for a mouthwatering meal.
I love how quick this dish comes together. Perfect for those busy nights when you just want something yummy without the fuss. Serve it over rice or pasta, and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, chicken thighs work well too—they’re juicier and add more flavor.
Cream Cheese: The star of the dish! Use full-fat cream cheese for creaminess, but low-fat works too. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese as a substitute.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and Parmesan give great flavor. You can swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper taste. Feta or goat cheese can replace Parmesan for a different twist.
Herbs & Spices: Italian seasoning gives a nice blend of herbs. If you don’t have it, just use your favorites like basil and oregano. Fresh herbs like thyme can also brighten up the dish.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but following these steps will help!
- Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent cooking.
- Searing the chicken first gives it a nice color and locks in juices. This step is key!
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—165°F (74°C) means it’s ready and tender!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Simple adjustments and careful cooking will lead to wonderfully creamy and delicious chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cream Cheese Chicken will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 35 minutes. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and yields that beautiful golden color.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and season them generously with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This step adds tons of flavor, so don’t skip it!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This locks in the juices and gives your chicken a lovely color!
4. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until everything is smooth and well blended. This cheesy goodness is what makes the dish extra special!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the top of each seared chicken breast. Make sure to cover them well; it makes for a delicious bite!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a baking dish and transfer it to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Let it Rest:
After baking, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This step helps retain moisture, making the chicken tender and juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish the chicken with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with your choice of sides like rice, pasta, or steamed veggies. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and savory chicken dinner!
FAQs About Cream Cheese Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, so feel free to use them. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
What Can I Use Instead of Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. Just blend them until smooth before mixing with the other ingredients. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cream cheese or cashew cream!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of cream or water to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and cream cheese mixture the day before. Store the chicken covered in the fridge. Just add the cream cheese topping right before baking, and it will be ready to go when you need it!
