Cream Cheese Chicken is a simple, creamy, and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and smooth cream cheese in a warm, flavorful sauce. The cream cheese melts perfectly to coat each piece of chicken, making every bite rich and satisfying without being too heavy.
I love how easy this recipe is to make on busy weeknights when I want something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The cream cheese adds just the right amount of tanginess and creaminess, and you can easily add your favorite herbs or spices to customize it. It always feels like a little treat, even though it’s so simple.
My favorite way to serve Cream Cheese Chicken is over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside some roasted veggies. It soaks up the sauce perfectly and makes for a cozy meal that everyone at the table enjoys. I also find it great for leftovers—the flavors just get better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use thighs or breasts here. Thighs stay juicier and have more flavor, while breasts are leaner. Both work great, so pick what you prefer or have on hand.
Cream Cheese: This gives the sauce its creamy texture and slight tang. If you want a lighter version, try using Neufchâtel cheese or a mix of cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
Chicken Broth & Heavy Cream: Broth adds flavor and moisture, while the cream makes the sauce rich. For dairy-free versions, coconut milk can be a good cream substitute, and use vegetable broth if needed.
Seasonings: Paprika and garlic powder bring warmth and depth. Feel free to swap paprika for smoked paprika to add a gentle smoky note or add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for more aroma.
How Do You Keep Chicken Tender and Juicy When Cooking in a Cream Sauce?
Cooking chicken perfectly in a sauce can be tricky. Here’s how to avoid dry or rubbery chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning—it helps the seasoning stick and gets a nice sear.
- Use medium-high heat to quickly brown the chicken on both sides. This locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; chicken needs space to brown properly.
- After searing, simmer gently in the cream sauce on low heat to finish cooking through without drying out.
- Cover the pan to keep moisture in during the final cooking step.
Following these steps will give you tender chicken surrounded by a creamy, tasty sauce every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – I prefer a wide pan for even searing and easy stirring.
- Meat thermometer – helps ensure the chicken is cooked through without overdoing it.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring the sauce without scratching the pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise seasoning and liquids, making the dish turn out just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onions and garlic efficiently.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a leaner option that cooks quickly and stays tender.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed spinach to boost flavor and add color to the dish.
- Mix in shredded cheese like Parmesan or mozzarella for extra gooeyness and flavor.
- Sprinkle with chopped herbs such as thyme, basil, or chives to brighten the dish.
Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs or mixed herbs
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so around 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy days when you want something creamy and comforting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat your chicken dry with paper towels. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder evenly on both sides. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside for now.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic
Lower the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until you can smell its aroma.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
Turn the heat down to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring it into the onions and garlic until smooth. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream gradually, mixing constantly so the sauce becomes creamy and combined without lumps.
4. Add Herbs, Return Chicken, and Simmer
Sprinkle in the dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly. Then place the chicken back into the sauce, spooning some sauce over each piece. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for 8-10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. If you want, add a dash more paprika or red pepper flakes for color and a little extra flavor. Serve your delicious Cream Cheese Chicken hot, paired with rice, pasta, or roasted veggies to enjoy every bit of that creamy sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a bag and submerging in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try coconut milk, keeping in mind it will add a slight coconut flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Can I Make Cream Cheese Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the dish as usual, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to eat, reheat slowly on the stove to avoid curdling the sauce. This recipe also freezes well—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
