Cream Cheese Chicken
Cream cheese chicken is a delectable dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions. The cream cheese adds a velvety texture while infusing the chicken with robust flavors. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to indulge in the comforting goodness of this delightful meal!
Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup spinach, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 25 minutes, making the total time approximately 35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fat: 22g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional breakdown is based on a serving size of one chicken breast with cream sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
4. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
5. In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chicken broth until smooth.
6. Stir in the chopped spinach until well combined.
7. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.
8. Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs for a juicier option. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a lighter version, while vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Cream cheese chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. A fresh salad or garlic bread also complements this rich dish perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry.
– Ensure cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
– Do not skip seasoning; it enhances flavor.
– Monitor the sauce to prevent burning.
– Use a thermometer to check chicken doneness.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate chicken in the seasoning for extra flavor.
– Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
– Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
– Use fresh spinach for optimal taste and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper flavor absorption.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then bake it just before serving for a fresh meal.
What can I substitute for spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives to spinach, providing similar textures and flavors.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, cream cheese chicken is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and can be reheated easily, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli can be added to the dish for additional nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
Cream cheese chicken is a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to make and delightful to eat. Its creamy sauce and tender chicken make it a favorite among families. Try this recipe for your next dinner, and enjoy the compliments from your loved ones!
Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup spinach chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Sear the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
- In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chicken broth until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped spinach until well combined.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.
- Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
