Dinner

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

Bymia larkspur March 6, 2026March 6, 2026

Introduction

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, creamy sauce that’s seasoned to perfection. It’s a simple, comforting dish that comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight meal.

A white plate holds three sections of food on a white marbled surface: on the top left, there are two pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken breast covered with a creamy white sauce sprinkled with green herbs; below the chicken is a generous portion of mashed potatoes topped with the same creamy white sauce that has small chunks and black pepper flakes, also sprinkled with green herbs; on the right side, bright orange cooked carrot pieces are cut into large chunks and lightly garnished with green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces cream cheese (a block of Philly), softened
2 large chicken breasts
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
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, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut it into smaller pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Melt the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
Step 5: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Add chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, which may take a few minutes.
Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet and warm through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.
Swap out Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
Add mushrooms or spinach during the onion sauté for added texture and nutrients.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

How to Serve

The image shows a black cast iron pan with four pieces of cooked chicken breasts in a light creamy white sauce, dotted with small bits of herbs and black pepper. Each chicken piece is golden brown with visible grill marks and is covered partially by the smooth sauce. The chicken and sauce are sprinkled with chopped green parsley, adding a contrasting color. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, and the pan handle is light blue. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cream cheese?

Cream cheese provides a smooth, creamy texture that’s key to this dish. Soft cheeses like mascarpone can work as substitutes, but harder cheeses will change the sauce consistency.