Want a creamy, flavorful dinner that’s quick and satisfying? Cream cheese chicken is a crowd-pleaser—rich, tender, and packed with flavor. Whether you prefer it in a skillet, slow cooker, or baked, here are five foolproof ways to make this delicious dish tonight.
Table of Contents
4 Reasons to Love Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream cheese chicken isn’t just tasty; it’s versatile and effortless. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Creamy & Comforting: The melted cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that clings to tender chicken.
- Quick Prep: Most versions take under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bacon for extra flavor.
- Leftover-Friendly: Tastes even better reheated for lunch the next day.
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Chicken

You likely have most ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need for the stovetop version (adjust for other methods later):
Base Recipe:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 4 slices cooked bacon (crumbled)
How to Make Cream Cheese Chicken (5 Methods)

1. Stovetop Cream Cheese Chicken (15 Minutes)
- Sear Chicken: In a skillet, cook chicken in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add broth, cream cheese, and spices. Whisk until smooth.
- Simmer: Return chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over it and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
2. Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Chicken (4 Hours)
- Layer Ingredients: Place chicken in the slow cooker. Top with cream cheese, broth, and spices.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir into the creamy sauce.
3. Baked Cream Cheese Chicken (25 Minutes)
- Prep: Arrange chicken in a baking dish. Mix cream cheese, broth, and spices; pour over chicken.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes.
4. One-Pot Cream Cheese Pasta with Chicken
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta (like penne) until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Combine: Add cooked chicken, cream cheese, and broth to the pot. Stir until saucy. Toss with pasta.
5. Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken
- Butterfly Chicken: Cut pockets into chicken breasts. Fill with cream cheese mixed with herbs.
- Bake: Secure with toothpicks. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 22–25 minutes.
Serving Suggestions for Cream Cheese Chicken

Pair this dish with sides that balance its richness:
- Grains: Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.
- Veggies: Roasted asparagus, garlic green beans, or a crisp salad.
- Breads: Warm crusty bread for soaking up extra sauce.
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or lemon zest.
Tip: For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Cream Cheese Chicken

Cream Cheese Chicken
Ingredients
Base Recipe:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup spinach fresh or frozen
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 4 slices cooked bacon crumbled
Instructions
Stovetop Method (15 Minutes):
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add broth, cream cheese, and spices. Whisk until smooth.
- Simmer: Return chicken to the pan. Spoon sauce over it and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
Slow Cooker Method (4 Hours):
- Layer Ingredients: Place chicken in the slow cooker. Top with cream cheese, broth, and spices.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours. Shred chicken and stir into the sauce.
Baked Method (25 Minutes):
- Prep: Arrange chicken in a baking dish. Mix cream cheese, broth, and spices; pour over chicken.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Uncover and broil for 2–3 minutes.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 9g |
Protein | 28g |
Carbohydrates | 6g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sugar | 3g |
Sodium | 450mg |
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but the sauce might be less creamy. Full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture.
How long does it keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.
Can I freeze cream cheese chicken?
Freeze without garnishes for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly to prevent separation.
Try It Tonight!
- Pick a Method: Stovetop for speed, slow cooker for ease, or baked for crispiness.
- Customize: Add your favorite veggies or spices.
- Enjoy: Dig into creamy, flavorful perfection.
Want more recipes? No bake peanut butter pie or check out our last post Chicken Burritos