Cream Cheese Chicken Recipes: Delicious and Easy Dinners
Cream cheese chicken is a family-friendly dish that’s incredibly versatile and satisfying. The creamy sauce complements the chicken perfectly, making it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. The best part? It’s easy to make! This article will explore several delicious cream cheese chicken recipes, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
## Why Cream Cheese Chicken is a Winner
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s explore why cream cheese chicken is such a popular choice for weeknight dinners:
* **Easy to Make:** Most recipes require minimal prep time and utilize simple cooking methods, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile:** Cream cheese chicken can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. You can add different vegetables, herbs, and spices to customize the flavor.
* **Family-Friendly:** The creamy texture and mild flavor appeal to both children and adults.
* **Affordable:** Chicken and cream cheese are generally affordable ingredients, making this a budget-friendly meal option.
* **Delicious:** The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce is simply irresistible.
## Basic Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
This recipe serves as a great foundation for many variations. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly flavorful.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
* Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, green onions
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. **Sear the Chicken:** Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this stage; they will finish cooking in the sauce.
3. **Make the Cream Cheese Sauce:** Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and let it melt, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking. If the cream cheese is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help it melt smoothly.
4. **Add Broth and Seasonings:** Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add milk or heavy cream (if using) for extra richness. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
5. **Simmer the Chicken:** Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the cream cheese sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. **Serve:** Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired. Serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite vegetables.
**Tips for Success:**
* **Softened Cream Cheese:** Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. This will help it melt smoothly and prevent lumps in the sauce.
* **Don’t Overcook the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, or pepper to suit your taste.
* **Thin the Sauce:** If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
## Cream Cheese Chicken Variations
Now that you have the basic recipe down, let’s explore some delicious variations that add different flavors and ingredients.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Spinach and Artichokes
This variation adds a healthy dose of vegetables and a burst of flavor. It’s inspired by the classic spinach and artichoke dip.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 1 cup chopped frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the basic recipe.
2. Add the thawed spinach, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese to the cream cheese sauce. Stir well to combine.
3. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with spinach and artichokes over the chicken. Serve with rice, pasta, or your favorite side dishes.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Wine
This variation adds an earthy and sophisticated flavor. The mushrooms and wine complement the cream cheese beautifully.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix)
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
* 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-2 of the basic recipe.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the white wine and cook for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds flavor to the sauce.
4. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and let it melt, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the dried thyme.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the cream cheese sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with mushrooms over the chicken. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Bacon and Ranch
This variation is a crowd-pleaser, combining the classic flavors of bacon and ranch dressing. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
* 1/4 cup ranch dressing
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the basic recipe.
2. Stir in the ranch dressing into the cream cheese sauce.
3. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken. Cover the skillet and cook for another minute or two, until the cheese is melted.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with bacon and cheese over the chicken. Serve with mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or your favorite side dishes.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Salsa
This variation adds a zesty and spicy kick to the dish. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot, depending on your preference)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the basic recipe.
2. Stir in the salsa into the cream cheese sauce.
3. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with salsa over the chicken. Serve with rice, black beans, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and shredded cheese.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Lemon and Herbs
This variation offers a bright and refreshing flavor. The lemon and herbs complement the cream cheese and chicken perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon lemon zest
* 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the basic recipe.
2. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped fresh herbs into the cream cheese sauce.
3. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with lemon and herbs over the chicken. Serve with roasted vegetables, couscous, or a fresh salad.
### Cream Cheese Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Basil
This variation adds a Mediterranean flair to the dish. The sun-dried tomatoes and basil create a rich and flavorful sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* All ingredients from the basic recipe, plus:
* 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
**Instructions:**
1. Follow steps 1-4 of the basic recipe.
2. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and chopped fresh basil into the cream cheese sauce.
3. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Spoon the cream cheese sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and basil over the chicken. Serve with pasta, polenta, or a side of crusty bread.
## Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken
For an even easier approach, try making cream cheese chicken in a slow cooker. This is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you when you get home.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 8 oz cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional additions: vegetables of your choice (broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers, onions, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Place Chicken in Slow Cooker:** Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. **Add Cream Cheese and Broth:** Spread the softened cream cheese over the chicken. Pour the chicken broth over the cream cheese and chicken.
3. **Season:** Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. **Add Vegetables (Optional):** If using vegetables, add them to the slow cooker around the chicken.
5. **Cook:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork.
6. **Shred Chicken (Optional):** If desired, shred the chicken with two forks directly in the slow cooker. This makes a great filling for sandwiches, tacos, or wraps.
7. **Serve:** Spoon the cream cheese sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Serve with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or your favorite side dishes.
**Tips for Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken:**
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking the chicken in the slow cooker can make it dry. Check the internal temperature of the chicken after the minimum cooking time.
* **Add Vegetables Later:** If you’re using delicate vegetables like broccoli florets, add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
* **Thicken the Sauce (Optional):** If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
## Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Chicken
Cream cheese chicken is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **With Rice:** Serve over cooked rice for a simple and satisfying meal. White rice, brown rice, or even flavored rice like cilantro-lime rice are all great options.
* **With Pasta:** Toss with cooked pasta for a creamy and flavorful pasta dish. Penne, fettuccine, and rotini are all good choices.
* **With Mashed Potatoes:** Serve alongside mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal. Add some garlic or herbs to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
* **With Vegetables:** Serve with roasted or steamed vegetables for a healthy and balanced meal. Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, and carrots are all good choices.
* **In Sandwiches or Wraps:** Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Add some lettuce, tomato, and other toppings for a delicious and easy lunch.
* **In Tacos or Burritos:** Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add some salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and other toppings for a flavorful and festive meal.
* **As a Dip:** Shred the chicken and mix it with extra cream cheese and other ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful dip. Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
## Tips for Meal Prepping Cream Cheese Chicken
Cream cheese chicken is a great option for meal prepping. Here are some tips:
* **Cook the Chicken in Advance:** Cook the chicken breasts and shred or slice them. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Make the Cream Cheese Sauce in Advance:** Prepare the cream cheese sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Combine and Reheat:** When you’re ready to eat, combine the cooked chicken and cream cheese sauce in a skillet or microwave-safe dish. Reheat until warmed through.
* **Portion Control:** Portion the chicken and sauce into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.
## Nutritional Information
The nutritional information for cream cheese chicken will vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used. However, in general, cream cheese chicken is a good source of protein and fat. It can also be a good source of vitamins and minerals, depending on the vegetables and other ingredients used. To get the most accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and enter the specific ingredients and amounts used in your recipe.
## Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Cream Cheese Chicken is easy, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
* **Not Softening the Cream Cheese:** Always soften your cream cheese before adding it to the skillet. Cold cream cheese will clump and not melt smoothly, resulting in a grainy sauce. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave it briefly in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until softened.
* **Overcooking the Chicken:** Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet as soon as it reaches this temperature.
* **Burning the Sauce:** Cream cheese can burn easily if the heat is too high. Keep the heat at medium or medium-low and stir the sauce frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
* **Using Low-Fat Cream Cheese:** While it might seem healthier, low-fat cream cheese doesn’t melt as well and can result in a thinner, less flavorful sauce. For the best results, use full-fat cream cheese.
* **Adding Too Much Salt:** Cream cheese can be naturally salty, so be cautious when adding salt to the dish. Taste the sauce before adding any extra salt and adjust accordingly.
## Conclusion
Cream cheese chicken is a delicious, easy, and versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With the basic recipe and variations provided in this article, you can create a variety of flavorful and satisfying meals that your family will love. Whether you prefer a simple and classic dish or a more adventurous flavor combination, there’s a cream cheese chicken recipe out there for you. So, get cooking and enjoy!