Easy Cream Cheese Chicken: Creamy, Simple Weeknight Meal (Print Version)

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Learn my simple method for this family favorite, even with kitchen mishaps!

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-free (if using GF broth)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
02 - 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

→ Flavor Boosters

04 - 4 cloves garlic, minced (or more, I won't judge!)
05 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

→ Finishing Touches

07 - 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

→ Pantry Staples

08 - 1 tbsp olive oil
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, pat those chicken breasts really dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice sear, trust me. I usually slice thicker breasts in half lengthwise to get thinner cutlets, which cook more evenly. Season them generously with a good pinch of salt and black pepper on both sides. Don't be shy here; well-seasoned chicken makes all the difference in this easy cream cheese chicken recipe.
02 - Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, add your seasoned chicken. Let it sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it's beautifully golden brown. We're not cooking it all the way through yet, just getting that gorgeous color and locking in some flavor. I sometimes get impatient and flip too early, only to regret not getting that perfect crust!
03 - Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes until it starts to soften and become translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Oh, the smell at this stage is just heavenly, a promise of the delicious easy cream cheese chicken to come!
04 - Now for the magic! Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir constantly, whisking gently, until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, luscious sauce. This is where using softened cream cheese really pays off; no lumpy struggles here, folks! If it's too thick, a splash more broth works wonders.
05 - Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into that amazing creamy sauce. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. I always check with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Don't overcook it, or your chicken will be dry!
06 - Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh parsley, giving the dish a vibrant pop of color and freshness. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed – maybe a little more salt or pepper? Serve this easy cream cheese chicken immediately, spooning that incredible sauce generously over each piece. It looks so inviting and smells absolutely divine!

# Notes:

01 - Always soften your cream cheese to room temperature before adding it to the pan. It makes for a silky-smooth sauce, every single time.
02 - Don't overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. Work in batches if you need to, or you won't get that beautiful golden crust.
03 - Taste, taste, taste! Seriously, adjust your seasonings throughout the cooking process. It's the only way to get it just right for your palate.
04 - For an extra vibrant dish, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It really brightens up the creamy sauce!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - cutting board
03 - sharp knife
04 - measuring cups and spoons
05 - whisk
06 - meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 8g
Protein: 35g

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