Cream Cheese Chicken: The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Recipe
Introduction to Cream Cheese Chicken
Cream Cheese Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with family, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a go-to favorite in many households.
A Personal Story Behind My Cream Cheese Chicken Journey
Growing up, my family often had chicken as a staple in our meals, but it was my grandmother’s creamy chicken dish that stole the show. She would whip it up quickly after a long day, and the aroma wafting through the kitchen was enough to bring everyone to the table. This recipe is a nod to her cooking and the memories we created together, making it not just a meal but a heartwarming experience.
What Makes This Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe Special?
This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe stands out due to its rich and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and savory mushrooms. The use of cream cheese gives it a luxurious texture, and the addition of mozzarella cheese adds a delightful stretchiness that makes every bite a treat. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
The Full Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz. regular or reduced-fat plain cream cheese
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ to ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- For serving: Steamed brown or white rice
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. This will help create a nice base for the dish.
- Sauté the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms for 4-5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant. This step builds a great flavor profile.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, ensuring not to let it burn, as garlic can turn bitter quickly.
- Season the chicken strips with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to coat them evenly for a great taste.
- Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan. Sear for 6-8 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is golden brown. This gives the chicken a delicious crust.
- Add the cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well until the cream cheese is melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pan, cover, reduce the heat, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Before serving, taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the creamy chicken and mushrooms over steamed rice, garnishing with parsley for a pop of color and freshness if desired.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cream Cheese Chicken
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. You can also serve it with a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess. For variations, consider adding spinach or bell peppers for extra color and flavor. If you’re looking to make it a bit heartier, serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cheese for the topping.
What side dishes go well with Cream Cheese Chicken?
Steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad are excellent accompaniments to this dish.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: 320
Servings: 4
Cream Cheese Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet For sautéing and cooking the chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 oz white button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 0.75 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 oz regular or reduced-fat plain cream cheese
- 0.25 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 0.25 to 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms for 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Season the chicken strips with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips. Sear for 6-8 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until the cream cheese is melted and mixed.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the pan, cover, reduce heat, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Taste and season with extra salt and pepper if needed before serving.
- Serve over steamed rice, garnished with parsley if desired.