Name: Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 packet Zesty Italian dressing seasoning; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 can cream of chicken soup

This succulent Italian Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion. Its creamy, flavorful sauce pairs excellently with the tender chicken, making it a hit with children and adults alike. The combination of cream cheese and Italian dressing seasoning makes this dish irresistibly delicious. It's a simple and easy to follow recipe which requires minimal preparation and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Photos of Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are generally readily available in most households. However, you might need to check for the Zesty Italian dressing seasoning. It's a unique blend of herbs and spices that greatly enhances the flavor of the dish. You can find it in the salad dressing or spices aisle in most supermarkets.

Ingredients for the Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Chicken breasts: These are the main protein in this dish. Choose boneless, skinless breasts for the best texture and flavor.

Zesty italian dressing seasoning: This gives the dish a burst of flavor. It's a blend of Italian herbs and spices.

Cream cheese: It adds a rich, creamy texture and flavor to the sauce. Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for a richer flavor.

Cream of chicken soup: This creates the base for the sauce. It's thick and creamy and adds a nice chicken flavor to the dish.

One reader, Giacobo Adkins says:

This Italian cream cheese chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and creamy, and the chicken comes out so tender. It's incredibly easy to make and always impresses my guests. I love serving it over pasta for a comforting and delicious meal. Highly recommend trying it out!

Giacobo Adkins

Essential Techniques for Making Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

How to cook the chicken in a crockpot: Place the chicken breasts in the crockpot and sprinkle the zesty Italian dressing seasoning over them. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked.

How to make the cream cheese sauce: In a saucepan, combine the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup over low heat. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little milk to reach the desired consistency.

How to serve: Serve the Italian cream cheese chicken over pasta or rice, spooning the creamy sauce over the chicken.

How To Make Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Add a little Italian twist to your usual chicken recipe. This is a slow-cooked dish that has cream cheese, wheat noodles, and some Italian seasoning.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4chicken breasts
1packetzesty Italian dressing seasoning
8ozcream cheese,softened
1cancream of chicken soup

Instructions

Cook on Low in crockpot for 4 to 6 hours. If sauce is too thick, add a little milk.
Serve over pasta or rice.

Nutrition

Calories: 378.49kcal
Fat: 26.71g
Saturated Fat: 11.24g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.02g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.43g
Carbohydrates: 5.78g
Fiber: 0.18g
Sugar: 1.23g
Protein: 27.89g
Cholesterol: 119.77mg
Sodium: 554.20mg
Calcium: 70.94mg
Potassium: 347.96mg
Iron: 1.51mg
Vitamin A: 233.37µg
Vitamin C: 0.19mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

To ensure that your chicken is cooked thoroughly and evenly in the crockpot, consider cutting the breasts into smaller pieces before cooking. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows the flavors of the zesty Italian dressing seasoning, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup to penetrate more deeply into the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, if you're using frozen chicken, make sure to separate the pieces to prevent them from sticking together during cooking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, marinate meats, and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup time.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors, slow cookers, and instant pots to simplify meal preparation.

Batch cooking: Prepare large quantities of food at once and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.

Organize your kitchen: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients, utensils, and cookware while cooking.

Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients and understand the steps involved.

Time-saving ingredients: Incorporate pre-cooked or quick-cooking ingredients such as rotisserie chicken, canned beans, and frozen vegetables into your recipes.

Clean as you go: Wash dishes, utensils, and countertops while cooking to minimize the post-cooking cleanup.

Plan your meals: Create a weekly meal plan and grocery list to streamline your cooking and shopping efforts.

Minimize multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to avoid mistakes and ensure efficient use of time in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe, providing a similar texture and taste.
Zesty Italian dressing seasoning - Substitute with homemade Italian seasoning mix: A homemade Italian seasoning mix can be used as a substitute, combining herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary for a flavorful alternative.
Cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a lighter alternative to cream cheese, adding a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
Cream of chicken soup - Substitute with homemade cream of chicken soup: A homemade cream of chicken soup can be made using a roux, chicken broth, and cream, providing a fresher and more flavorful alternative to canned soup.

How to Beautifully Present Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Elevate the plating: As a culinary genius, I would carefully arrange the creamy Italian cream cheese chicken on a pristine white plate, ensuring each element is showcased beautifully.
Garnish with fresh herbs: I would delicately sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Create a contrast of textures: To add visual interest and complexity, I would consider pairing the creamy chicken with a crunchy parmesan crisp or a crispy garlic crostini.
Incorporate vibrant vegetables: I would artfully incorporate vibrant, blanched asparagus spears or roasted cherry tomatoes to add a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
Use elegant serving ware: I would select elegant porcelain plates or handcrafted ceramic bowls to present the dish, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall presentation.
Consider the negative space: I would carefully consider the use of negative space on the plate, ensuring that the dish is visually appealing and not overcrowded.
Add a drizzle of sauce: To enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of finesse, I would delicately drizzle a reduction of balsamic vinegar or a creamy béchamel sauce around the plate.
Incorporate edible flowers: I might consider adding a few delicate edible flowers such as pansies or nasturtiums to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the dish.
Use unique plating techniques: I would explore unique plating techniques such as quenelles or carefully arranged microgreens to elevate the presentation of the Italian cream cheese chicken.
Consider the overall visual balance: I would ensure that the presentation is visually balanced, with careful attention to color, texture, and arrangement to create a stunning visual impact.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Crockpot: A crockpot is a slow cooker that is perfect for cooking the Italian cream cheese chicken recipe. It allows for slow, even cooking and is convenient for preparing meals in advance.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining the zesty Italian dressing seasoning, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup to create the flavorful sauce for the chicken dish.
Serving dish: A serving dish is necessary for presenting the Italian cream cheese chicken over pasta or rice, allowing for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Storing and Freezing Italian Cream Cheese Chicken: A Guide

Allow the italian cream cheese chicken to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the chicken and sauce to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the dish, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
2. If using a container, make sure to leave some headspace for expansion during freezing.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
4. Lay the bag flat in the freezer for even freezing and to save space.
5. The italian cream cheese chicken can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen dish:
1. Thaw the chicken and sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Transfer the contents to a baking dish and cover with foil.
3. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
4. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and steaming.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing or reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out and improve the consistency.

How To Reheat Leftover Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Stovetop method: Transfer the leftover italian cream cheese chicken to a saucepan and add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin out the sauce. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This method allows you to control the consistency of the sauce and ensures even heating.
Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover italian cream cheese chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is bubbly. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly. This method is ideal for larger portions and helps maintain the original texture of the dish.
Microwave method: Transfer individual portions of the leftover italian cream cheese chicken to microwave-safe dishes. Cover each dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the chicken from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is warm. Stir the dish halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is quick and convenient for single servings.
Slow cooker method: If you have a considerable amount of leftover italian cream cheese chicken, you can reheat it in your slow cooker. Transfer the leftovers to the slow cooker and add a small amount of chicken broth or milk to thin out the sauce if needed. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is heated through and the sauce is warm. This method is perfect for keeping the dish warm for an extended period, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.

Interesting Fact About Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Italian cream cheese chicken is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of cream cheese and Italian seasoning with tender chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for busy days, as it can be easily prepared in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld together while you go about your day. It's a versatile dish that can be served over pasta or rice, making it a great option for a family dinner or a casual gathering. The creamy and savory flavors of this dish are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Is Making Italian Cream Cheese Chicken at Home Cost-Effective?

This Italian cream cheese chicken recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are affordable and easily accessible, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of chicken breasts and cream cheese provides a good balance of protein and flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, depending on the prices of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Italian cream cheese chicken recipe, while undeniably delicious, falls short in terms of overall healthiness. The main concerns are:

High fat content due to the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup
Sodium levels from the zesty Italian dressing seasoning and canned soup
Lack of vegetables or fiber-rich ingredients

The combination of cream cheese and cream of chicken soup creates a rich, calorie-dense sauce that may contribute to weight gain and elevated cholesterol levels if consumed regularly. Additionally, the zesty Italian dressing seasoning and canned soup are likely to contain significant amounts of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following modifications:

Replace the cream cheese with a reduced-fat version or Greek yogurt for a protein boost and lower fat content
Opt for a low-sodium cream of chicken soup or prepare a homemade version using fresh ingredients
Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase fiber and nutrient density
Use a homemade Italian seasoning blend to control sodium levels and add depth of flavor
Serve the chicken with a side of quinoa or brown rice for a healthier carbohydrate option

By making these adjustments, you can transform this indulgent dish into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your cravings for creamy, Italian-inspired flavors.

Editor's Opinion on Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

This Italian cream cheese chicken recipe is a simple and convenient dish that offers a creamy and flavorful result. The combination of zesty Italian dressing seasoning, cream cheese, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich and indulgent sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken. Cooking it in a crockpot allows for easy preparation and a hands-off cooking process, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The dish can be served over pasta or rice, providing a versatile and satisfying meal. Overall, it's a delightful and comforting recipe that is sure to please the whole family.

Enhance Your Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan coating.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with a sticky honey glaze for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

Mushroom Risotto: Creamy and flavorful risotto made with tender mushrooms and rich broth for a comforting and satisfying side dish.

Delicious Alternatives to Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken: This dish combines the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan with tender chicken for a satisfying meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken with a vibrant mango salsa that brings a burst of freshness to every bite.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, perfect for a cozy night in during the colder months.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in a sweet and tangy berry cobbler, topped with a buttery crust for a delightful dessert.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Italian Cream Cheese Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate the classic bruschetta by topping crispy baguette slices with a flavorful combination of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. This refreshing and vibrant appetizer is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Layered with delicate ladyfingers, rich mascarpone cheese, and a hint of coffee liqueur, this classic Italian dessert is a perfect combination of creamy and indulgent flavors. Topped with a dusting of cocoa powder, it's a decadent treat for any occasion.

Panna Cotta: This silky smooth dessert is a delightful combination of sweetened cream and vanilla, set with gelatin to create a delicate, custard-like texture. Topped with a vibrant fruit compote, it's a refreshing and elegant way to end any meal.

Why trust this Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed hit for any chicken lover. The combination of zesty italian dressing seasoning and creamy cream cheese creates a rich and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken breasts. The addition of cream of chicken soup adds depth and richness to the dish. Plus, the convenience of using a crockpot makes it a hassle-free meal option. Trust the rave reviews from our community of home cooks who have tried and loved this Italian cream cheese chicken recipe.

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FAQ:

What can I substitute for the zesty Italian dressing seasoning?

If you don't have zesty Italian dressing seasoning, you can use a combination of dried herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a similar flavor profile.

Can I use something other than cream of chicken soup?

Yes, you can substitute cream of mushroom soup or cream of celery soup for a different flavor. You can also make a homemade white sauce with chicken broth, butter, and flour as an alternative.

Can I use something other than chicken breasts?

Absolutely! You can use boneless chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut of chicken you choose.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of using a crockpot?

Yes, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Simply cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, then add the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup, and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is creamy.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.