If you’re searching for a recipe that brings together tender, juicy chicken with a luxuriously creamy sauce, look no further than this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels fancy enough for guests yet simple enough for any weeknight. With the rich cream cheese sauce melding with savory herbs and melty cheeses, every bite is a delight that makes cooking feel like a warm hug. This dish effortlessly combines minimal ingredients to create maximum flavor, delivering a succulent meal that’s sure to become a family favorite in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe truly shine, you’ll be using a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a distinct role, from building layers of flavor to creating that irresistibly creamy texture and appealing golden color.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps create a golden crust on the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings cozy, aromatic depth for that classic savory base.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Balances with a sweet and slightly sharp flavor punch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and freshness to the seasoning mix.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed): The star ingredient that gives the sauce its rich, creamy body.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Lightens and loosens the sauce while infusing savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs bringing a Mediterranean flair.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, offering gooey, milky goodness on top.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty kick that elevates the dish.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, bright finish that lifts the richness.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These simple spices work together to build a savory foundation. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, allowing the surface to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust while locking in juices. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Sauce
Keep the skillet on low heat and carefully pour in the chicken broth. Add the softened cream cheese cubes along with the Italian seasoning. Stir gently but continuously until the cream cheese melts completely, blending with the broth to create a smooth, velvety sauce. This creamy base will coat the chicken perfectly and bring a rich tang without overpowering the palate.
Step 3: Combine and Melt the Cheese
Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them gently in the sauce. Spoon the luscious cream cheese mixture generously over the top of each piece. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow everything to cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, giving the cheeses time to melt into bubbly, golden perfection. This step is where the sauce becomes irresistibly cheesy and cohesive.
Step 4: Garnish and Finish
When the cheese has melted and the sauce is bubbling lightly, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that balances the richness beautifully. Your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is now ready to delight your taste buds.
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic way to add a burst of green and freshness. You can also consider a light dusting of smoked paprika or fresh basil leaves to bring extra color and mild flavor contrasts without overshadowing the creamy sauce.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken pairs wonderfully with simple, comforting sides. Serve it atop fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce, or alongside buttery rice or pasta for an easy meal. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are crisp, vibrant complements that keep the dish balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the chicken breasts after cooking and fan them out on the plate, drizzled with the sauce and sprinkled with cheese. You can plate this over a bed of sautéed spinach or even use low-carb cauliflower rice to keep it light and flavorful. Presentation is a great opportunity to let the sauce shine and impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making it a perfect next-day meal. Just be sure to store the sauce and chicken together to keep everything moist.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prep in advance. Wrap the chicken and sauce tightly and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. To avoid drying out, add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to loosen the sauce as it warms. Cover the skillet to keep the moisture locked in until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use other cheeses instead of mozzarella and Parmesan?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan provide a great melt and flavor balance, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Gruyère depending on your preference. Just choose ones that melt well for the best sauce texture.
Is this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses simple, whole ingredients and no flour or gluten-containing items. Just be sure to check your chicken broth label to confirm it’s gluten-free as some brands may vary.
Can I make this recipe healthier or lower in fat?
Definitely. Using light cream cheese options will reduce fat content without compromising much on creaminess. You can also serve with cauliflower rice instead of starchier sides to keep the meal lighter overall.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries! Dried parsley or other fresh herbs like chives, basil, or cilantro can work nicely as alternatives. Even a little lemon zest can brighten the dish beautifully if you want a pop of freshness.
Can I add vegetables directly to the skillet?
Yes, adding vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers during the sauce step is a great idea. Sauté them along with the sauce or just before adding cream cheese to incorporate extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe is one of those magical dishes that feels both indulgent and approachable. It’s a reliable weeknight winner that brings comfort and joy with every creamy, cheesy bite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see just how simple it is to create such a delicious, satisfying meal at home. Trust me, once you have it on your table, it will be requested again and again!
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a creamy, cheesy sauce made from cream cheese, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. A quick and comforting stovetop dish that melts mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for added richness, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Creamy Sauce and Cheese
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened and cubed)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, softened cream cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the cream cheese sauce generously over the chicken. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes on low heat, allowing the cheeses to melt and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot over your choice of rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- For extra flavor, sauté fresh garlic and mushrooms along with the chicken.
- Use light cream cheese to reduce fat content for a lighter version.
