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Cream Cheese Chicken ready to be served, showcasing a delicious and creamy dish.

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that's sure to impress. It features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, decadent cream cheese sauce, perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or vegetables. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it's a family-friendly dish that's ready in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • paper towels
  • whisk
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Meat Thermometer
  • spatula
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Lid for skillet

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. The chicken doesn't need to be cooked through at this point, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium.
  5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Whisk until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Bring the sauce to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low.
  8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and nestle them in the sauce.
  9. Cover the skillet and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
  11. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Don't overcook the chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). Soften the cream cheese for a smoother sauce. Full-fat cream cheese creates a richer flavor. Adjust sauce thickness with chicken broth or by simmering. Add lemon juice for brightness or red pepper flakes for heat. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage, though texture may change. Reheat in microwave or skillet. Variations include mushroom, spinach, sun-dried tomato, or bacon additions.