Delicious Chicken Cream Cheese Recipe in Just 30 Minutes!
As a busy parent, finding a quick and tasty meal can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this chicken cream cheese recipe. It’s ready in just 30 minutes.
A beautifully plated dish of creamy chicken adorned with delightful chunks of cream cheese, garnished with fresh herbs, served alongside vibrant vegetables, all set against a rustic kitchen backdrop, warm lighting highlighting the textures and colors of the meal.
This dish has tender chicken strips cooked just right. They’re smothered in a creamy sauce with onions and mushrooms. It’s all topped with melted mozzarella. This mix of flavors is a hit with everyone.
This recipe is great because it needs only 7 main ingredients and no heavy cream. The creamy sauce is made by melting cream cheese with chicken broth. This lets the flavors from the veggies and chicken mix in perfectly.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Ready in less than 30 minutes
- Uses 7 main ingredients
- Chicken breasts are cut into strips for even cooking and quicker preparation
- Serves 4 people
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days
Introduction to Creamy Chicken Perfection
Get ready for the ultimate family-friendly dinner with this creamy chicken dish! It’s a favorite for its delicious taste and easy prep. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to wow your guests.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This recipe is loved for its amazing taste and quick prep. You can make a creamy chicken dish in just 30 minutes. The sauce wraps around tender chicken and mushrooms, making a delicious mix of flavors and textures.
Key Benefits of This 30-Minute Meal
- Incredibly quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses simple, readily available ingredients found in most pantries
- Produces a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the chicken and mushrooms to perfection
- Versatile enough to serve as a family-friendly recipe or an impressive quick and easy dinner for guests
Prepare to enjoy the comforting and indulgent flavors of this creamy chicken dish. It’s sure to become a new favorite in your home.
“This recipe is a game-changer! The chicken is so tender and the sauce is absolutely amazing. It’s become a go-to meal in our house.” – Sarah, Satisfied Home Cook
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Cream Cheese Recipe
Making the perfect Chicken Cream Cheese recipe begins with picking the right ingredients. At its core, you need boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips for even cooking. To season the chicken, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
The creamy sauce is made with shallots, chicken stock, and full-fat cream cheese. A bit of Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor. The sauce is topped with mozzarella cheese for a gooey finish.
For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This recipe is not only tasty but also fits various diets like gluten-free, low-carb, and keto.
You can swap chicken thighs for breasts or skip the mushrooms if you like. The goal is to use high-quality ingredients for a satisfying meal.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 2x 250g/9oz, sliced through the center |
| Smoked Paprika | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Dried Thyme | 1/8 tsp |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Shallots | 2 |
| Chicken Stock | 180ml / 3/4 cup |
| Cream Cheese | 1x 165g/5.8oz tub, full-fat |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tsp |
| Mozzarella Cheese | As needed for topping |
| Fresh Parsley | For garnish (optional) |
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Chicken Cream Cheese dish. It’s sure to delight your family and friends.
“Raw chicken breast on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by fresh herbs and spices, with a soft natural light illuminating the scene, creating a fresh and appetizing atmosphere.”
Kitchen Tools and Preparation Tips
Getting ready for the Easy Chicken Cream Cheese Recipe is easy with the right tools and prep tips. We’ll look at the key cookware and smart ways to make this 30-minute meal a hit.
Required Cookware
You’ll need a big skillet or sauté pan for cooking the chicken and sauce. A strong cutting board and sharp knife are key for slicing the chicken quickly. Also, a meat thermometer is a must to check the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Time-Saving Prep Techniques
- Slice the chicken into thin, even strips before cooking for faster, more even cooking.
- Prepare the bacon in advance, either by cooking it ahead of time or using pre-cooked bacon, to save time during the cooking process.
- Chop the vegetables, such as onions and mushrooms, ahead of time to reduce the active cooking time.
By spending a few minutes prepping, you can have this tasty cream cheese chicken ready in 15-20 minutes. The recipe can be partly prepped ahead, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
A well-organized kitchen countertop featuring essential cooking tools for a chicken cream cheese recipe, including a cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, mixing bowl, measuring cups, spatula, and a whisk, with fresh chicken breasts and cream cheese in the background, vibrant colors and natural lighting.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this tasty Chicken Cream Cheese recipe is easy and quick, taking about 25 minutes. Start by sautéing onions and mushrooms in a skillet over medium heat. They should soften and smell great.
Then, season the chicken strips with your favorite spices. Sear them in the skillet until they’re golden brown on all sides.
After the chicken is done, it’s time to make the creamy sauce. Add cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
To finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30-40 minutes. The chicken should reach 165°F inside.
Success in this recipe comes from paying close attention to the cooking steps. Make sure your oven is preheated and use a meat thermometer. With a bit of practice, you’ll make this creamy chicken perfection in no time!
| Cooking Process | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| Sauté onions and mushrooms | 5-7 minutes |
| Sear seasoned chicken strips | 8-10 minutes |
| Prepare cream cheese sauce | 5 minutes |
| Bake chicken with mozzarella | 30-40 minutes |
| Total Cooking Time | Approximately 25 minutes |
The cooking time can vary a bit. This depends on your oven and the chicken’s thickness. Always check with a meat thermometer. The chicken should be 165°F inside for safety.
“This Chicken Cream Cheese recipe is a true family favorite, thanks to its incredible flavor and quick cooking process.”
Sauce Variations and Flavor Enhancements
This easy chicken cream cheese recipe is very versatile. You can make it your own by trying different herbs and seasonings. Or, mix in various cheeses to add more flavor.
Herb and Seasoning Options
Want a ranch flavor? Just add a ranch seasoning packet to the cream cheese. For a lighter version, use light cream cheese and low-fat mayonnaise. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Or, try dried spices like garlic powder for a smoky taste.
Cheese Combinations to Try
Instead of Colby Jack, try cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend. You can also add other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. For something heartier, add spinach or baby potatoes to the mix.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in this chicken cream cheese recipe?
The main ingredients are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cream cheese, onions, and mushrooms. You’ll also need garlic, chicken broth, and mozzarella cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free and low carb?
Yes, it’s gluten-free and low carb. This makes it great for keto and other low-carb diets.
How long does it take to prepare and cook this dish?
It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I customize the flavor of this dish?
Yes, you can. Add different herbs, seasonings, and cheese to match your taste.
What kitchen tools are needed to make this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet, cutting board, knife, and a meat thermometer. The thermometer helps ensure the chicken is cooked right.
Can I prepare any part of the recipe in advance?
Yes, you can. Chop the veggies and slice the chicken before cooking. This cuts down the cooking time to 15-20 minutes.
