Cream Cheese Chicken is the ultimate weeknight comfort dish—a luscious, savory delight where tender seared chicken breasts are coated in a velvety, tangy cream cheese sauce. The balance of garlic, cream, and subtle herbs brings everything together into a meal that feels cozy, indulgent, and beautifully simple.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or craving a creamy homemade dinner idea, this chicken dish delivers. It pairs beautifully with rice, roasted veggies, or even pasta, soaking up that rich sauce for a satisfying bite every time. One pan, quick prep, and restaurant-worthy taste—this is about to become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients for this Cream Cheese Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped chives (or parsley for garnish)
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, lower the heat slightly and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown it.
Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan. Add the cream cheese, stirring until it melts into a smooth sauce. Then mix in the heavy cream, onion powder, and red pepper flakes if using. Let it simmer gently for another 2–3 minutes, stirring often.
Step 4: Return Chicken and Coat
Add the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer everything together for another 3–4 minutes so the chicken warms and absorbs the flavor.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with chopped chives or parsley, and serve hot with your favorite sides. The sauce is perfect over rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can add extra crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the sauce for more heat.
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Just adjust cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
What sides go best with Cream Cheese Chicken?
Steamed rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or egg noodles all make excellent pairings.
Is it okay to use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat cream cheese offers the richest flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Sure! Spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli can be stirred into the sauce before serving.
How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat moderate and avoid boiling the sauce once the cream is added. Stir frequently for a smooth texture.
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