Name: Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 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

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting dinner that feels a little indulgent but still comes together effortlessly, you’re going to absolutely love this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to when I want something creamy, flavorful, and ready in about 30 minutes flat. The mix of tender chicken and that luscious, tangy cream cheese sauce is seriously next level, and the best part is—you only need one pan, which means less mess and more time to relax.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Creamy Sauce: The cream cheese melts into a dreamy sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken every time.
One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup without sacrificing any flavor or texture makes weeknight dinners a breeze.
Flexible & Easy to Customize: You can easily tweak the spices or add veggies for your own spin.
Consistently Delicious: I’ve made this dozens of times and it reliably wows my whole family.

A pan filled with four golden-brown cooked chicken pieces partially covered by a thick creamy white sauce with a smooth texture, speckled with small black pepper bits and finely chopped green herbs scattered evenly on top. The pan is light blue with sturdy handles, set against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet, Chicken Skillet Recipes, Creamy Chicken Dinner, Easy One-Pan Chicken, Quick Comfort Food

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together in harmony to create a rich, savory dish. Shopping tip: Use fresh garlic and quality cream cheese—it really makes a difference in flavor and texture.

Flat lay of two large raw chicken breasts, a block of cream cheese cut into smaller pieces, a small white bowl of golden olive oil, a small white bowl of melted butter, a small white bowl of light golden chicken broth, a small white bowl of Italian seasoning powder, a small white bowl of crushed red pepper flakes, a small white bowl of garlic powder, three whole garlic bulbs with several peeled cloves, a medium yellow onion halved and chopped, a few sprigs of fresh parsley, and two whole uncracked brown eggs placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet, Chicken Skillet Recipes, Creamy Chicken Dinner, Easy One-Pan Chicken, Quick Comfort Food

Cream cheese: Softened block cream cheese is key for that silky sauce; don’t substitute with whipped varieties here.
Chicken breasts: I prefer splitting them to thinner pieces so they cook evenly and quickly.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that builds depth without overpowering.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to elevate every element in the dish.
Butter: Helps with the sear and adds richness.
Olive oil: Keeps the butter from burning and adds a nice flavor balance.
Onion: I use a medium yellow onion, chopped finely, to soften into sweetness.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that punch of aromatic flavor.
Chicken broth: Balances the cream cheese to form the sauce and adds a savory base.
Italian seasoning: Brings herbs and warmth that lift the whole dish.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch to add a bit of gentle heat without overwhelming.
Fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal brightness right before serving.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe is a perfect base to get creative. Over time, I’ve tried different tweaks and you might find a variation that fits your vibe or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Swap the chicken: Turkey breasts or chicken thighs work wonderfully if you want a juicier or leaner option – I’ve done thighs on colder days for extra comfort.
Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini before adding the broth to sneak in some extra nutrients—I especially love sautéed spinach folded in at the end.
Spice it up: For a bit more kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add smoked paprika; this is how I keep it interesting when making it often.
Dairy-free idea: You can try swapping cream cheese for a cashew cream blend, but keep in mind the texture will change a bit.

How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Cream Cheese and Chicken

Start by microwaving your block of cream cheese until it’s soft and easy to stir—this usually takes about 20-30 seconds depending on your microwave. Meanwhile, cut your chicken breasts in half lengthwise to get four thinner pieces; this helps them cook quickly and evenly. Don’t forget to season both sides liberally with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I always find seasoning well at this stage makes a major difference later on.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken to Golden Perfection

Heat your skillet over medium-high, melt the butter with a splash of olive oil, then add the chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes until you get a beautiful golden crust and the internal temperature hits 165°F for safety. Don’t overcrowd the pan—if your skillet is small, do this in batches so the chicken gets a nice sear rather than steams. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base with Onions and Garlic

Lower the heat to medium, then toss in the chopped onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize, which sweetens the overall dish. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds—don’t let it burn because it turns bitter pretty quickly.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now for the magic! Pour in the chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously to melt the cream cheese into a smooth, velvety sauce—it takes a couple of minutes. If the consistency feels too thick, a little splash of extra chicken broth will loosen it right up.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the chicken back to the skillet, gently nestling the pieces in the sauce and warming through for a minute or two. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides (more on that below!).

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Pro Tips for Making Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

Don’t Rush the Sear: Getting a good golden crust on your chicken before making the sauce adds depth and texture that makes this dish extra special.
Softened Cream Cheese is Key: If you add cold cream cheese, it clumps up instead of melting smoothly—warming it first helped me avoid a grainy sauce.
Adjust the Sauce Thickness: The sauce will thicken as it sits, so keep a little extra broth on hand to thin if you’re reheating leftovers.
Use a Meat Thermometer: I always use a thermometer to make sure my chicken hits 165°F, which means juicy and completely safe.

How to Serve Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe

Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I always top this dish with fresh parsley because it adds just the right amount of brightness and color contrast against the creamy sauce. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle a little extra crushed red pepper if we want a touch more heat. It’s those simple garnishes that really elevate the plate.

Side Dishes

I love serving this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta so you can soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For something lighter, steamed green beans or roasted broccoli work wonderfully too. Rice or even garlic bread make great sponge-worthy companions as well.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like to serve the chicken over a bed of pesto pasta or creamy risotto. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan on top really makes it feel restaurant-worthy. Another favorite is plating it with colorful roasted veggies arranged artfully around the skillet portion—your guests will be impressed by how homey and refined it looks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since the sauce thickens after chilling, I usually add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it back up. It leftovers reheat nicely without drying out, which can be a challenge with chicken dishes.

Freezing

This Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe freezes pretty well, though the texture of the sauce changes slightly. I recommend freezing without garnish and in portioned containers. When thawed, it still tastes great—just reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, and adding a splash of broth or water as needed to keep the sauce creamy. You can also microwave it on low power in short intervals, stirring in between. Either way, be patient—high heat can toughen the chicken and break the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts in this recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are actually a great option because they’re more forgiving and usually juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F. Searing and making the sauce remains the same.
What can I serve with this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe?

I enjoy serving it with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. The creamy sauce pairs well with any starch that can catch and hold onto those delicious flavors.
How do I prevent the cream cheese sauce from curdling?

Make sure your cream cheese is softened before adding it to the hot broth, and stir continuously to melt it slowly. Also, avoid high heat once the cream cheese is combined; a gentle simmer helps keep the sauce smooth and creamy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and a suitable broth, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Testing small batches first is a good idea if you need to adapt it for dietary reasons.

Final Thoughts

I have to say, this Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet Recipe holds a special place in my recipe rotation because it’s just so comforting and endlessly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, yet it’s easy enough to whip up after a busy day. Give it a try—you’ll discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something really special, and I promise, your family or friends will be asking for seconds!