If you are searching for a delicious and satisfying dinner that comes together quickly, this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious creamy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The silky cream cheese sauce, spiced with garlic and Italian seasoning, creates a comforting dish that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight. Once you try this recipe, it’s going to be one of your go-to favorites when you want something cozy, tasty, and fuss-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this scrumptious dish. Each item here plays an essential role, from building the creamy texture to layering in flavor and enhancing the overall aroma and appearance.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened): This is the star of the sauce, lending a rich and velvety feel that makes every bite memorable.
- Chicken breasts (2 large): Sliced for faster cooking, they provide the hearty protein base that absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle savory depth that complements the fresh garlic perfectly.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Helps create a golden sear on the chicken and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter’s richness and ensures even cooking without sticking.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Gives sweetness and a slight crunch that softens beautifully when sautéed.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic punch that awakens the senses and elevates the sauce.
- Chicken broth (3/4 cup): Provides a flavorful liquid base, lightening the creamy sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that introduces earthiness and warmth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, pleasant kick without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful garnish that brightens the final presentation.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Soften and Prepare the Cream Cheese
Start by microwaving the cream cheese until it’s very soft. This step is important because it allows the cream cheese to blend smoothly into the sauce later. Cutting it into smaller pieces after softening makes incorporating it effortless and hassle-free.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken
Slice your chicken breasts lengthwise to create four thinner pieces which cook quicker and stay juicy. Season both sides generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This simple seasoning ensures each bite has a tasty foundation before adding the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they become golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked but remain tender. Once done, place the chicken aside on a plate to rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions
Turn down the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onion. Let them cook for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized, releasing sweet and savory notes that build the depth of your sauce.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Build Flavor
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds. This short addition ensures the garlic flavor stays bright and aromatic without becoming bitter or overpowering.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until everything melts together into a smooth and creamy sauce. This step might take a few minutes, but the transformation will be worth the patience.
Step 7: Return Chicken to the Sauce
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet with the sauce, allowing them to warm through and soak up all those lovely flavors. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to achieve your preferred consistency.
Step 8: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Taste your sauce and add any extra salt or pepper as needed to perfect the flavor. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you’d like a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is an excellent choice for garnish—it adds a little herbal brightness and visual appeal. You can also try a few lemon zest sprinkles for a citrusy contrast or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra savory notes.
Side Dishes
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or a fluffy rice pilaf to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. For a lighter touch, steamed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad work wonderfully as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner presentation, serve the chicken pieces nestled on a bed of creamy polenta or alongside buttered noodles. Consider plating with colorful vegetables like roasted carrots or asparagus for a restaurant-quality appearance that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or second-day dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce separately or together in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftover Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This keeps the chicken moist and the sauce creamy without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
You could experiment with mascarpone or ricotta, but cream cheese gives this recipe its uniquely rich and tangy creaminess. Substituting might change the texture and flavor significantly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as it uses simple, whole ingredients without any wheat. Just make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free, as some brands add additives that contain gluten.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While it’s best enjoyed freshly cooked on the stove for optimal texture, you can adapt it for slow cooking by layering ingredients and adding the cream cheese last to prevent curdling. Expect a slightly different texture but similar flavors.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
Chicken thighs can be used instead if you prefer darker meat with more fat and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
How spicy is this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes in a mild amount, giving it just a hint of heat that enhances flavor without overwhelming the creaminess. You can easily omit or increase the amount based on your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting about a creamy, flavorful chicken dish that cooks quickly and makes any mealtime feel special. This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe hits all the right notes — simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that’s both elegant and cozy. I can’t wait for you to make it and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too.
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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 creamy, flavorful sauce made from softened cream cheese, garlic, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Prepared in just 25 minutes, it’s a comforting and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (sliced in half lengthwise to make 4 thinner pieces)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 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, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut it into smaller pieces and set aside for easier mixing.
- Slice and season the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F). Remove the chicken and place on a plate.
- Sauté the onions: Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the onions are softened and lightly browned.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Add chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth, which may take a few minutes.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
- Finish and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Ensure chicken breasts are pounded or sliced evenly to cook uniformly.
- For a milder flavor, reduce or omit crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
