Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender chicken strips cooked with sautéed onions, mushrooms, and garlic, all enveloped in a creamy blend of cream cheese, chicken broth, and melted mozzarella. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for a weeknight dinner served atop steamed rice and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch wide strips
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Sauce
- 4 oz. regular or reduced-fat plain cream cheese
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
To Serve
- Steamed brown or white rice
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra-virgin olive oil to warm.
- Sauté vegetables: Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant without burning.
- Prepare the chicken: While vegetables cook, slice the chicken breasts into long, 1-inch wide strips and season them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet. Sear the chicken for 6-8 minutes, turning once to brown both sides until golden and cooked through.
- Make the creamy sauce: Stir in the cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth, mixing until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the pan. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 2-3 minutes more until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is melted.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and add extra salt and pepper if desired. Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom mixture over steamed brown or white rice, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if using.
Notes
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-sodium broth for a lighter version.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- Steamed rice can be swapped with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
