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Homemade Easy Cream Cheese Chicken photo

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

A creamy, savory skillet chicken dinner made with softened cream cheese and a flavorful garlic-onion pan sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened (block, e.g., Philadelphia)
  • 2 large chicken breasts halved lengthwise to make 4 thinner cutlets
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • fresh parsley chopped, optional, to taste

Equipment

  • Microwave-safe Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Large Skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

  1. Microwave the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl until very soft, about 20–30 seconds; cut into smaller pieces and set aside.
  2. Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to make 4 thinner cutlets and season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F (74°C); transfer chicken to a plate.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the same skillet; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
  6. Add the minced garlic and cook about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes; stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth, 1–3 minutes. Add a splash more broth if you prefer a thinner sauce.
  8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm through in the sauce for 1–2 minutes; taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest sauce.
  • Cutting chicken thin helps it cook evenly and quickly.
  • Gently reheat leftovers to avoid separating the sauce.