Cream Cheese Chicken is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a luscious, velvety cream cheese sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that doesn’t require much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cream Cheese Chicken is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy sauce, made with cream cheese, adds a delightful richness to the tender chicken, while garlic and herbs bring aromatic flavors. It’s simple, quick, and highly customizable to suit your taste. Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Cream Cheese Chicken

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the cream cheese melt into the broth and create a creamy sauce.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream (if using), and dried thyme. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully coated and heated through.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: You can stir in vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and skip the heavy cream to make a lighter version of this dish.
Cheese Variation: Swap Parmesan cheese with mozzarella, cheddar, or Gouda for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of extra chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work great in this recipe as well! They are more tender and juicy, and they cook similarly to breasts.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat the chicken and sauce gently when ready to serve.

Can I make this dish with frozen chicken?

It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking, as cooking frozen chicken may affect the texture of the sauce.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar. Just be aware that it will slightly change the flavor of the dish.

What can I serve with Cream Cheese Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it over pasta or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese. You can also use a dairy-free milk or broth in place of the heavy cream.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To prevent curdling, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the skillet. Cook the sauce over medium heat and avoid high heat that might cause the cream to separate.

Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! You can customize the seasoning to your taste. Try adding basil, rosemary, or a touch of lemon zest for a fresh twist.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut the thickest part of the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink and the juices run clear.

Can I freeze Cream Cheese Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 2-3 months. Allow the chicken and sauce to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The creamy sauce elevates the chicken, making it a comforting meal your family will love. With its rich, savory flavors and easy preparation, it’s a great addition to your dinner rotation and sure to satisfy everyone at the table!