If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful dinner that comes together quickly and tastes like comfort in every bite, this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is exactly what you need. Tender chicken breasts are simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and herbs—creating a dish that feels indulgent without being complicated.
It’s the kind of recipe you can pull together on a busy weeknight using just a handful of ingredients, but it’s satisfying enough to serve to guests or as part of a cozy weekend dinner. Best of all, it’s versatile. Serve it with rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a complete meal that everyone at the table will enjoy.
Why This Recipe Works
Cream cheese adds both richness and tang to the sauce, making it smooth and full of flavor. The chicken is lightly seared before simmering, which locks in moisture and builds a flavorful base. The combination of garlic, herbs, and cream cheese transforms everyday ingredients into something that tastes special, without any complicated steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer darker meat.
Cream Cheese
Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor. Let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing.
Garlic
Fresh garlic cloves add depth and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
Chicken Broth
Adds moisture and helps create the sauce. Choose low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
Butter or Olive Oil
Used for searing the chicken and adding flavor to the sauce base.
Seasonings
Salt, black pepper, onion powder, and dried Italian herbs (or thyme, oregano, or basil).
Optional Add-ins
Chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms can be stirred into the sauce for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and onion powder. If they are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally for quicker, even cooking.
2. Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add butter or olive oil. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add softened cream cheese in chunks and stir until melted and smooth. Sprinkle in dried herbs and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Simmer the Chicken
Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce will thicken slightly as it simmers.
5. Serve
Serve the chicken with a generous spoonful of sauce over your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for Success
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for smoother melting.
- Thin the sauce with extra broth if it becomes too thick during simmering.
- Always check the internal temperature of chicken—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Variations
Add Vegetables
Chopped spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms can be added to the sauce before simmering the chicken.
Make it Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a little kick.
Swap the Protein
This creamy sauce also works well with pork chops or shrimp.
Make it Cheesy
Stir in a bit of grated mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesier sauce.
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Chicken
- Buttered noodles or mashed potatoes
- Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus
- Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls
- A fresh green salad for a lighter pairing
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
This dish also freezes well. Freeze the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the sauce may be thinner. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best texture and flavor.
What if the sauce is too thick?
Add a little more chicken broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, the dish can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors often deepen with time.
Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stovetop?
Yes. After making the sauce, pour it over the seared chicken in a baking dish. Cover and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20–25 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is one of those recipes that feels like comfort food without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s rich, flavorful, and versatile, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s satisfying and easy to customize to your tastes. Try it once, and it just might become a regular part of your meal rotation.
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