If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that comes together quickly yet feels special, this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. Cream cheese lends a rich, velvety texture to the sauce while infusing the tender chicken with a subtle tanginess that really elevates the dish. It’s perfectly seasoned, delightfully creamy, and oh-so-satisfying—making it a true weeknight winner that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, each one playing a crucial role in building a harmonious blend of flavors, creamy texture, and inviting color in your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe.
- Cream cheese: Softened to effortlessly melt into a silky sauce.
- Chicken breasts: Sliced thin for quick, even cooking and tender bites.
- Garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Butter: Provides a rich, golden base to sauté the chicken and onions.
- Olive oil: Helps keep the butter from burning and adds a fruity note.
- Onion: Chopped and sautéed until soft and caramelized for depth.
- Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to boost aromatic complexity.
- Chicken broth: Adds moisture and a subtle savory background.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb mix that enhances every bite.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A little kick of heat to balance creaminess.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a burst of freshness and a pop of green.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cream Cheese
Start by microwaving the cream cheese until it’s very soft—this makes it easier to incorporate smoothly into the sauce later. Cutting it into smaller pieces helps it melt evenly without clumps.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts lengthwise to create thinner pieces. This not only speeds up cooking but ensures each bite is tender and juicy. Season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for that foundational flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat butter and olive oil together in a skillet over medium-high heat to create a perfect sauté base. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked inside. Don’t rush this step—getting a nice sear is key for flavor.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics
After removing the chicken, turn the heat down to medium and sauté chopped onions until they’re translucent and slightly browned. Then, add minced garlic and cook just long enough to release its fragrance—about 30 seconds is perfect.
Step 5: Create the Cream Cheese Sauce
Add chicken broth, the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. This step brings the whole dish together and gives it that luscious texture.
Step 6: Combine and Warm Through
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over each piece. Let it warm through so the flavors meld beautifully. If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up to your liking.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed, then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top if you’re using it. This fresh herb not only brightens the dish visually but adds a mild pop of flavor that complements the creaminess.
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is the classic choice, lending vibrant color and a fresh herbal note. You can also experiment with a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pairs beautifully with steamed green veggies, like broccoli or asparagus, to cut through the richness. Mashed potatoes or garlic butter noodles also soak up the sauce wonderfully and make the meal incredibly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy polenta for a comforting presentation. Serve family-style with extra sauce in a bowl on the side for guests to ladle on. A rustic wooden board sprinkled with herbs adds a charming, casual touch for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days while maintaining great flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but for best results, freeze the chicken and sauce separately to prevent the cream cheese from separating. When frozen properly, it will last for about 2 months.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water helps revive the creamy consistency without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use cream cheese that is not softened?
It’s best to use softened cream cheese because it melts more easily into the sauce, helping create a smooth texture. If you try using it cold, it might clump and not blend well.
What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary works perfectly. It’s all about layering those fragrant herbs.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth does not contain gluten additives. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I make this recipe with chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add extra juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time so the thighs are fully cooked through but still tender.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the creaminess. You can always reduce or omit them if you prefer a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe—it’s a delicious, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, it comes together quickly and always impresses. Give it a try, and prepare to have a new favorite chicken dinner in your recipe book!
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made with softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and aromatic spices. A simple skillet meal that comes together quickly, it’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner served with your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft, then cut it into smaller pieces and set aside for easier melting later.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions: Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the onions are softened and lightly browned.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, which should take a few minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the sauce over, and warm through. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is very soft for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- Using thinner chicken pieces helps the chicken cook evenly and faster.
- Feel free to adjust the crushed red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
- Serve this dish with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator is best within 3 days.
