Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and a total cook time of 45 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various side dishes like steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Adaptable: Easily modified to suit low-carb or keto diets by pairing with appropriate sides.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sear the seasoned chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine the chicken broth and softened cream cheese. Whisk until smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Place the seared chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Once baked, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Approximately 35 minutes.
- Total Time: 45 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute chicken breasts with turkey cutlets, tofu, or boneless chicken thighs. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure proper doneness.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate broccoli florets, spinach, or sliced mushrooms into the sauce before baking to add nutritional value and texture.
- Flavor Twists: For a Cajun flair, add paprika, cayenne pepper, and Creole seasoning to the spice mix. To give it a Mediterranean twist, include oregano, thyme, and a splash of lemon juice.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Pair with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep the dish keto-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency. Alternatively, use the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the cream cheese sauce may separate upon thawing, altering its texture.
FAQs
How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?
To prevent the cream cheese sauce from curdling, use softened cream cheese to ensure smooth blending, whisk continuously while combining the cream cheese and chicken broth, and avoid overheating the sauce; cook it over medium heat.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. Sear the chicken beforehand for added flavor, then add all the ingredients (except Parmesan and parsley) into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir in Parmesan cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What are the best herbs to use?
The classic Italian seasoning blend works perfectly, but you can also customize by adding fresh parsley for garnish and a pop of freshness. Experiment with thyme, oregano, or rosemary for more depth. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding a pinch of lemon zest or dried basil.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients. To be safe, ensure that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish. The sauce may be slightly less creamy, but it will still be delicious.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Cream Cheese Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complement its rich and creamy flavors, such as steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or asparagus.
Print
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a creamy, flavorful, and easy dinner option perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and simple seasonings. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a family-friendly meal that pairs well with rice, veggies, or mashed potatoes. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for low-carb and keto diets!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Season the Chicken – Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning over the chicken breasts.
- Sear the Chicken – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce – In the same skillet, whisk together the chicken broth and softened cream cheese until smooth. Stir in Parmesan and adjust seasoning. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Assemble and Bake – Place seared chicken in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve – Let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a low-carb/keto option, serve with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or microwave on medium power.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
