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Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

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4 from 5 reviews

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a deliciously creamy and comforting dish that uses simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful sauce tossed with tender chicken breasts. This recipe comes together quickly in about 30 minutes, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce is infused with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a hint of heat from crushed red pepper flakes, making it a well-balanced and crowd-pleasing meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Sauce

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (a block of Philly), softened
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • Fresh chopped parsley (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Soften Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until it is very soft. Cut into smaller pieces and set aside to make it easier to melt later into the sauce.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for flavor.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil together in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté Onions: Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onions to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and lightly browned, enhancing their natural sweetness.
  5. Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir constantly until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and well combined, which may take a few minutes.
  7. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it well in the creamy sauce. Warm through for a couple of minutes. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, garnish with fresh parsley if using, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Ensure the cream cheese is properly softened to facilitate a smooth sauce without lumps.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked safely to 165°F.
  • For a milder dish, reduce or omit crushed red pepper flakes.
  • This dish pairs excellently with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American