Description
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and delicious dish featuring tender chicken strips sautéed with mushrooms, onions, and garlic, then coated in a creamy cream cheese and mozzarella sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this comforting meal pairs perfectly with steamed rice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Main 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 Oil and Sauté Vegetables: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra-virgin olive oil. Add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms, sautéing for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Prepare and Season Chicken: While the vegetables cook, slice the chicken breasts into strips. Season them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sear Chicken Strips: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan and sear for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the chicken pieces are golden brown on all sides.
- Create Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, then add the cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth to the pan. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and combines smoothly with the broth, coating the chicken and veggies.
- Add Mozzarella and Finish Cooking: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the pan. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat slightly, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked through. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom mixture over steamed brown or white rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-sodium broth to lighten up the dish without sacrificing creaminess.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee safety.
- For a lower calorie option, reduce the amount of mozzarella or substitute with a low-fat cheese.
- If you prefer, substitute chicken breasts with thighs for juicier results.
- Fresh parsley adds brightness, but it’s optional depending on your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
