Cream Cheese Dinners: Easy And Delicious

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Philadelphia cream cheese, a culinary chameleon, seamlessly transitions from breakfast spreads to decadent desserts. But why limit its potential to mornings and sweets? Tonight, we embark on a global gastronomic journey, transforming this creamy delight into a symphony of flavors for dinner.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 1 block (8 ounces) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint

    • Cream Cheese Chicken
    Cream Cheese Chicken

    Image Source: apartmenttherapy.info

    Preparation:

    1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes with the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
    2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, and dill until smooth.
    3. Coat the Chicken: Drain the marinated chicken and coat each piece in the cream cheese mixture.
    4. Bread the Chicken: Roll the coated chicken in the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
    5. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the breaded chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through.
    6. Make the Lemon-Honey Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey.
    7. Assemble the Dish: Serve the crispy chicken over a bed of your favorite grain, such as quinoa or rice. Drizzle the lemon-honey glaze over the chicken and garnish with fresh mint.

    Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Serving Suggestions:

    A Mediterranean Feast: Pair the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes.

  • A Middle Eastern Delight: Serve the chicken over a bed of couscous, topped with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of za’atar.
  • A Classic American Comfort Food: Serve the chicken with mashed potatoes and a side of green beans.

    • A Cultural Fusion

    This dish is a testament to the global influence of Philadelphia cream cheese. It draws inspiration from the bold flavors of the Mediterranean, the aromatic spices of the Middle East, and the comfort food classics of America. The creamy, tangy cream cheese provides a luxurious base, while the crispy breading adds a satisfying crunch. The bright lemon-honey glaze balances the richness of the dish, elevating it to a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

    As we savor each bite, we appreciate the power of food to connect cultures and spark joy. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a journey through time and space, a celebration of culinary diversity, and a testament to the versatility of a simple ingredient.