Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and creamy dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious cream cheese sauce. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a simple yet indulgent meal. The smooth texture and savory flavor make it a family favorite that pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken breastscream cheesebuttergarlic cloveschicken brothonion powdersaltblack pepperolive oilparsley (for garnish)
directions
Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden on both sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping the bottom of the pan.
Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
Add chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier version.
Add grated Parmesan for a cheesier sauce.
Stir in a splash of white wine with the broth for depth.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.
Not recommended for freezing as the cream cheese sauce may separate.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.
What sides go well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables work beautifully.
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours, adding the cream cheese in the last 30 minutes.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I add spices?
Absolutely, try paprika, Italian seasoning, or chili flakes for a kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if your chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Can I prep this ahead?
You can season the chicken and mix the sauce ahead, storing both separately until ready to cook.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese Chicken is a cozy and satisfying dish that’s both simple and indulgent. With minimal ingredients and big flavor, it’s perfect for a quick dinner that feels special. Try it with your favorite sides and enjoy the creamy goodness that everyone will ask for again.
PrintCream Cheese Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan‑sear
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, tangy cream cheese sauce with herbs and garlic.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ lbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add cream cheese, chicken broth, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy, warming about 2–3 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet, spoon sauce over top, and simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for extra flavor.
- Use low‑fat cream cheese to reduce calories.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.