This easy cream cheese chicken is one of those dishes I love to make when I want something creamy, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes. I take simple ingredients like chicken breasts, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs and turn them into a rich, velvety sauce that feels indulgent yet effortless. It’s a perfect comfort food meal that I can whip up even on a busy evening.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s quick, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. The cream cheese adds a mild tanginess that makes the sauce irresistibly smooth and creamy. I only need pantry staples to make it, and it goes perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a treat but doesn’t take much effort at all.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 large chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
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
Fresh chopped parsley, optional
Directions
I start by microwaving the cream cheese until very soft, then cut it into smaller cubes and set it aside.
Next, I slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. I season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, I melt the butter and olive oil, then cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes on each side until golden and fully cooked. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.
I reduce the heat to medium and add the onions, cooking them for 5–7 minutes until soft and golden. Then I stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
I add the chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. I stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
I return the chicken to the skillet and let it warm through in the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, I add a little extra broth.
Finally, I adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook.
Variations
Sometimes I replace half the chicken broth with a splash of dry white wine for a more refined flavor.
I’ve also made it with boneless chicken thighs, which come out juicier, though they take a little longer to cook.
For a smoky variation, I like to add a pinch of smoked paprika.
I occasionally toss in spinach or mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. When I reheat it, I do so slowly over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. I don’t freeze this dish because the cream cheese sauce can change texture when thawed.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
I make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer helps ensure it’s cooked perfectly without drying out.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I sometimes cook the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve. Just store both in the fridge and reheat gently.
What sides go best with cream cheese chicken?
I love serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad with balsamic dressing make great sides too.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
I prefer full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest sauce, but low-fat works fine. The texture might be slightly less rich, though still delicious.
How can I make the sauce thinner or thicker?
If the sauce feels too thick, I add more chicken broth or a bit of milk. If it’s too thin, I simmer it a little longer until it thickens.
Conclusion
I find this easy cream cheese chicken recipe to be the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients and one pan, I can make a satisfying dinner that tastes like something from a cozy restaurant. It’s creamy, comforting, and always a hit at the table.
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting one-pan dinner made with juicy chicken breasts simmered in a rich garlic-herb cream cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s ready in just 30 minutes and pairs well with pasta, rice, or potatoes.
Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 large chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
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
Fresh chopped parsley, optional
Instructions
Microwave cream cheese until very soft, cut into cubes, and set aside.
Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make 4 thin cutlets. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and cook 5–7 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Return chicken to skillet and heat through. Add more broth if sauce is too thick.
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Swap half the broth for dry white wine for added flavor.
Use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier variation.
Add smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Stir in spinach or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
