If you’re looking for a quick and creamy chicken recipe that delivers big flavors, this Cream Cheese Chicken is the perfect dish for you. With tender, golden chicken breasts cooked in a savory sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and chicken broth, this dish is a comfort food classic that’s both indulgent and easy to make. The added Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes give it just the right balance of flavors, while the cream cheese creates a silky smooth sauce that coats the chicken beautifully.

This recipe is ideal for a weeknight dinner when you want something rich and satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. It pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables. Plus, it’s a great choice for those who love creamy dishes but prefer a more savory, balanced flavor over overly rich, cheesy sauces.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

2. Creamy and Flavorful

The creamy sauce made from cream cheese and chicken broth is rich yet balanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes.

3. Tender Chicken

By cutting the chicken breasts into thinner pieces, you ensure that they cook quickly and stay tender and juicy.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to make the dish your own. Add a little more heat or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is great for meal prep since it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely. It’s a simple, go-to meal for busy days.

Ingredients

Cream cheese, softened
Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Butter
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Chicken broth
Italian seasoning
Crushed red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Variations

Add Vegetables: Sauté spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the onions for a more vegetable-packed meal.
Cheese Lovers: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce for extra creaminess and a rich, cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
Herb Swap: Replace Italian seasoning with a combination of dried thyme, rosemary, and basil for a fresh twist.
Low Carb Option: Serve this with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut it into smaller pieces and set it aside. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened and lightly browned.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Make the Sauce

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add the chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, which may take a few minutes.

Step 5: Reheat Chicken in Sauce

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat the chicken with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to thin it out. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Softening the Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese for 20-30 seconds to soften it before using. This makes it easier to incorporate into the sauce.
Chicken Breasts: For extra tender chicken, consider using thin-sliced chicken breasts or pounding the chicken to an even thickness before cooking.
Make the Sauce Creamier: If you prefer an even creamier sauce, add a few tablespoons of heavy cream after mixing in the cream cheese.
Use a Non-stick Pan: A non-stick skillet will help prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan and allow the chicken to brown beautifully.

How to Serve

This Cream Cheese Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. The rich sauce makes it perfect for spooning over a bed of grains, while the chicken itself remains tender and flavorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will retain its flavor and tenderness when properly stored.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen for later use. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little chicken broth if the sauce has thickened. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving, making them a good alternative.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I use fat-free cream cheese?

Fat-free cream cheese can be used, but it may result in a less creamy texture. Consider adding a bit of heavy cream to make the sauce richer.

4. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper for a spicier version.

6. Can I substitute the butter and oil?

Yes, you can use just olive oil or butter in place of both, depending on your preference.

7. How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and skip the butter, using olive oil instead.

8. What can I serve with this dish?

Serve with rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

9. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them fully before cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

10. How long does this dish last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple, yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and rich flavors come together to create a meal that’s satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s the kind of dish that delivers comfort without the fuss.