Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a cozy, creamy, and downright delicious chicken dinner that comes together quickly, you’re going to adore this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is actually super simple—perfect for weeknights when you want something satisfying without a fuss. I absolutely love how the cream cheese makes the sauce irresistibly rich and velvety, and honestly, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this skillet over and over again.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together to create a creamy, flavorful skillet meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. I always keep these on hand since they make for a great easy dinner! When shopping, pick cream cheese that’s full fat for maximum flavor and make sure your chicken breasts are fresh and about the same size for even cooking.

• Cream cheese: Use a block of softened cream cheese to make the sauce smooth and creamy.
• Chicken breasts: I like to slice them thin for quick cooking and tender texture.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the chicken’s flavor with an easy garlic hit.
• Salt & pepper: Season generously to bring out all the flavors.
• Butter: Adds richness to the pan and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
• Olive oil: Helps prevent butter from burning and gives a nice base for sautéing.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed lightly.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh minced garlic gives that unmistakable aromatic boost.
• Chicken broth: Thins the sauce just enough and infuses flavor.
• Italian seasoning: Brings herbaceous notes that complement the cream cheese perfectly.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A fresh garnish that adds color and a hint of brightness.

Variations

I love tweaking this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe to suit different moods and meals. You can tweak it easily, so don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding ingredients or adjusting the seasonings to your liking.

• Spicy Kick: I sometimes bump up the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for a spicier sauce—great for spice lovers!
• Veggie Boost: Toss in some spinach or mushrooms with the onions to sneak in some greens and extra texture.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter for a friendlier option.
• Herb Swap: Fresh basil or thyme works wonders if you want a different herby vibe than Italian seasoning.

How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Soften Your Cream Cheese and Prep Chicken

This first step really sets the scene for how smooth your sauce will be. I usually microwave the cream cheese for about 20-30 seconds until it’s really soft and easy to blend. Then I slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise—it helps them cook evenly and stay tender. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for that base layer of flavor that’s so important.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat butter and olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat—this combo prevents the butter from burning but still lets you get that beautiful golden crust. When it’s hot, add the chicken and cook each side for about 5-6 minutes. The key is not to overcrowd the pan so each piece browns nicely. Once cooked through (165°F internal temperature), set the chicken aside on a plate, but keep all those tasty browned bits in the pan—that’s flavor gold.

Step 3: Build the Flavor with Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium and toss in the chopped onions. Let them cook slowly for 5-7 minutes until soft and lightly browned—it brings out a natural sweetness that balances the richness of the sauce. Then add your minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, enough to get aromatic but not burnt.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce

This is where the magic really happens. Pour in your chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Use your spoon or spatula to stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce is silky smooth—it might take a couple minutes, but trust me, it’s worth the patience. If you want the sauce a little thinner, just splash in a bit more broth.

Step 5: Bring It All Together and Serve

Pop the chicken back into the skillet and let everything warm through for a couple minutes, letting the flavors meld. Taste your sauce and season with extra salt and pepper if needed. I always sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top—it brightens the plate and adds a fresh touch. Now it’s ready to dig in!

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

I always finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley—it adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that balances the creamy richness. Sometimes, I like to add a little extra cracked black pepper on top or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a subtle zing that wakes up the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up every bit of that amazing sauce. If you’re after something lighter, roasted or steamed green beans and a crisp mixed green salad are my go-to sides to keep the plate balanced and delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to serve the Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet over a bed of creamy polenta or even spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. Plating with a fresh herb sprig and a lemon wedge really makes it look restaurant-worthy—and trust me, your guests will be impressed!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually transfer leftovers to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens a bit as it cools, so give it a good stir and add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! I portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding broth if needed. Just avoid freezing any fresh herbs to keep flavors fresh.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer warming it slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. This helps maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency. If you’re short on time, the microwave works too—just add a splash of chicken broth and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s simple comfort food you can throw together quickly without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself on a busy evening, it feels like a warm hug on a plate. I hope you love making (and eating) this as much as I do—don’t be surprised if it becomes your new weeknight favorite!

Print