If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dinner that’s done in under 30 minutes, this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is about to become your new go-to. Picture this: tender chicken breasts, seasoned to perfection, simmered in a creamy, velvety sauce made with garlic, herbs, and tangy cream cheese. It’s rich without being heavy, and simple enough for weeknights, yet satisfying enough for company.

This dish is cooked all in one pan (hello, easy cleanup!) and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even steamed veggies for a low-carb option. The cream cheese melts into the pan juices to create a silky, savory sauce that clings to the chicken just right. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this meal is a must-try.

Best of all, this creamy chicken dish is highly customizable. Add a handful of spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to switch it up. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again—and you probably will!

What Makes This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Special?

One-Pan Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love the creamy, comforting sauce.
Flexible Ingredients – Customize with your favorite veggies or herbs.
Restaurant-Quality Taste – Rich and flavorful without complicated steps.

This recipe uses simple techniques like searing the chicken to lock in flavor and creating a quick pan sauce with cream cheese, broth, and seasonings. A few basic ingredients become something truly satisfying.

Ingredient Notes

Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless; you can also use thighs for extra juiciness.
Cream cheese – Full-fat is best for a richer sauce; low-fat works in a pinch.
Garlic – Freshly minced adds deep flavor.
Chicken broth – Helps thin the sauce and add a savory depth.
Olive oil & butter – For sautéing and extra richness.
Italian seasoning – Adds classic herb flavor (swap with thyme or oregano if needed).
Salt & pepper – Season generously.
Optional add-ins – Fresh spinach, mushrooms, chopped parsley, sun-dried tomatoes.

Equipment needed: A large skillet or sauté pan with lid.

How To Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Season and Sear the Chicken
- Pat 2–3 chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove from pan.
Make the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to medium. Add 2–3 minced garlic cloves to the pan and cook for 30 seconds.
- Pour in 3/4 cup chicken broth and scrape the pan to release any browned bits.
- Stir in 4 ounces cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
Finish Cooking Chicken
- Return chicken to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low heat for another 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- Optional: Stir in a handful of spinach or mushrooms at this stage.
Serve and Enjoy
- Spoon sauce over chicken. Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve with pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Storage Options

Room temperature: Not recommended; refrigerate within 2 hours.
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave; add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Use chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
Add vegetables like baby spinach, kale, or bell peppers.
Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Swap cream cheese for Boursin or mascarpone for a twist.
Try dairy-free versions using coconut cream and vegan cream cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken? Only if thawed completely first. For best texture, use fresh or fully thawed chicken.

What can I use instead of cream cheese? You can substitute mascarpone, Greek yogurt, or a soft cheese like Boursin.

Why is my sauce grainy? This happens if the cream cheese isn’t fully melted. Whisk well until smooth before adding chicken back.

Can I make this ahead? Yes! Make the dish, cool completely, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

Is this keto-friendly? Yes, if served without pasta or with low-carb veggies like zucchini noodles.

How do I know the chicken is done? Use a thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F in the thickest part.

Conclusion

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken brings bold flavor, creamy comfort, and simple technique to your dinner table—all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this dish delivers restaurant-worthy results with minimal effort. Give it a try tonight and let us know how you customized yours!