cream cheese chicken

Cream Cheese Chicken with Baked Broccoli Tots: A Wholesome Dinner Idea

 

Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich, flavourful dish that pairs beautifully with baked broccoli tots, creating a perfect blend of creamy and crispy textures. Both recipes are ideal for a family-friendly meal, providing a healthy dose of vegetables alongside a savoury protein-packed dish. Cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy flavour to the chicken, making it an irresistible option for weeknight dinners.

Why Cream Cheese Chicken?

Cream cheese chicken is a simple yet decadent recipe. With only a few ingredients, including boneless chicken breasts, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, it offers a flavourful dish that’s easy to prepare. You’ll sauté the chicken until golden brown, then bake it with a thick layer of cream cheese for a luscious, creamy finish.

For a twist, you can add sautéed onions or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavour. The tanginess of cream cheese complements the savoury chicken, while its creamy texture ensures every bite is indulgent. Pairing it with a healthier side like baked broccoli tots balances the richness of the dish, providing a well-rounded meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese over each chicken breast.
5. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a side of baked broccoli tots for a complete meal.

Baked Broccoli Tots: A Nutritious Side

Baked broccoli tots are a fantastic addition to any meal, especially when you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fries or other processed sides. Made with only a few ingredients—broccoli, breadcrumbs, cheese, and eggs—these tots are kid-friendly and deliciously crispy.

The combination of cream cheese chicken and baked broccoli tots gives you the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and a hint of indulgence without being overly heavy. It’s a great way to introduce more greens into your diet while still enjoying comfort food.

Ingredients for Baked Broccoli Tots:

• 3 cups cooked broccoli, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup onion, finely diced
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Boil the broccoli until tender, drain well, and chop finely.
3. Mix the broccoli with cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, and eggs until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small tot shapes and place on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy on the outside.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Both cream cheese chicken and baked broccoli tots provide essential nutrients without the need for overly processed ingredients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while broccoli is packed with vitamins C, K, and fibre. Combining these two dishes gives you a balanced meal with plenty of protein, fibber, and essential nutrients to fuel your day.

For additional ideas on sides and healthy meals, check out Recipesify, where you’ll find a range of healthy recipes, including vegetable-forward dishes like baked broccoli tots or more indulgent options like creamy chicken entrees. You can also explore more broccoli-based recipes like roasted broccoli or cheesy broccoli bites for variety.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Chicken with Baked Broccoli Tots is an easy, wholesome, and family-friendly meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy chicken pairs beautifully with the crunchy broccoli tots, creating a satisfying dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or looking to switch up your dinner routine, this combination is sure to be a hit.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, be sure to visit Recipesify, where you can explore healthy options and find inspiration for your next meal