EASY CREAM CHEESE CHICKEN

ByLena Moore on

If you love rich, creamy sauces and tender chicken, this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken will be your new go-to weeknight dinner! With just a few simple ingredients, this dish delivers buttery, cheesy goodness in every bite. Serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies for an effortless and comforting meal!

🛒 Ingredients for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

🍗 For the Chicken

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 small ones!)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (adds depth of flavor!)
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing!)

🥛 For the Cream Cheese Sauce

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat for the best texture!)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (makes it extra rich!)
  • ½ cup chicken broth (adds depth & keeps it saucy!)
  • ½ cup shredded parmesan or mozzarella cheese (for extra cheesiness!)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for a classic touch!)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder!)

🍽️ Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup baby spinach (for a creamy Florentine-style dish!)
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (adds a sweet-savory contrast!)
  • Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick!)

🍽️ Substitutions for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

  • Dairy-free? Use coconut cream + dairy-free cream cheese.
  • Keto-friendly? Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
  • No heavy cream? Substitute half & half or whole milk.

👩‍🍳 How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

1️⃣ Prepare & Season the Chicken

  1. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets.
  2. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2️⃣ Sear the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  3. Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  3. Add cream cheese, breaking it up with a whisk until smooth.
  4. Stir in parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
  5. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4️⃣ Combine & Serve

  1. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce.
  2. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F internal temp).
  3. Serve over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh parsley.

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Chicken

  • Want extra crispy chicken? Lightly dredge in flour before searing.
  • For a thinner sauce, add more chicken broth or milk.
  • Prefer baking? Bake seasoned chicken at 375°F for 20 minutes, then pour over the sauce.
  • Use softened cream cheese! Cold cream cheese can make the sauce lumpy.

🥶 Storage Instructions for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep the sauce creamy.
  • Freeze? Yes! Freeze for up to 2 months, thaw overnight, and reheat gently.

🔄 Recipe Variations for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

  • Mushroom Cream Cheese Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
  • Spinach & Artichoke Version: Stir in chopped artichokes and baby spinach.
  • Buffalo Cream Cheese Chicken: Mix in hot sauce for a spicy, cheesy delight!
  • Lemon Herb Cream Cheese Chicken: Add lemon zest & fresh herbs for a bright, fresh flavor.

❓ FAQs About Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add seasoned chicken, broth, and cream cheese to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 4-5 hours, then stir in heavy cream & cheese before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with buttered noodles, roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or GARLIC BREAD!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it separately.

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