Name: Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 8 oz. white button mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips; 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 oz. regular or reduced-fat plain cream cheese; 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1/4 to 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Steamed brown or white rice; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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If you are looking for a comforting dish that comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, then you’ve got to try this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken. It’s a creamy, savory delight featuring tender chicken strips wrapped in a luscious sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, and mozzarella, with mushrooms and onions adding flavor and texture. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying, yet uncomplicated, that impresses without stress.

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples but each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, turning everyday components into a golden, creamy masterpiece.

Extra-virgin olive oil: For a rich, fruity base that sautéed onions and mushrooms can thrive in.
Small onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
White button mushrooms (sliced): Bring earthiness and a juicy bite to complement the creamy sauce.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses an irresistible aroma and zingy warmth.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut in strips): The tender main protein that absorbs all those beautiful flavors.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning throughout and enhancing every other flavor.
Black pepper: Provides a mild heat and brightness.
Plain cream cheese (regular or reduced-fat): Creates the ultra-smooth and creamy sauce base.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and a subtle savory background without overpowering.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives a melty, cheesy finish.
Steamed brown or white rice: The perfect neutral canvas to soak up every drop of sauce.
Fresh parsley (chopped, optional): A fresh, herbal pop of green that brightens the dish.

How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Sauté Onions, Mushrooms, and Garlic

Start by heating the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms, allowing them to gently soften and caramelize for about 4 to 5 minutes. This slow cook draws out natural sweetness and deepens the flavor. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, just enough time to release its fragrant essence without burning.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken

While your vegetables are cooking, slice the chicken breasts into strips for even cooking and better sauce coverage. Season them liberally with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the chicken’s natural taste and to ensure every bite is flavorful from the inside out.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet with mushrooms and onions. Let them sear without moving for a few minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side. This step locks in juices and develops a mouthwatering crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and stir in the cream cheese and chicken broth. The cream cheese will start melting into a silky sauce, coating every piece of chicken and vegetable. When the mixture is smooth, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the pan, reduce the heat slightly, and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese has melted into gooey perfection. If you want to be precise, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s perfectly safe to eat.

How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is the classic garnish here, adding a burst of vibrant color and a fresh, slightly peppery taste that cuts through the richness. If you want to get creative, some crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, either brown or white, which complements the creamy sauce while adding wholesome texture. For a low-carb alternative, roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice are a superb choice. A simple green salad on the side adds freshness and contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes a big difference, especially when you want to impress without extra work. Try serving the chicken over a bed of vibrant saffron or turmeric rice for a pop of color. You can also spoon the creamy sauce generously and sprinkle extra mozzarella and parsley on top. Individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets give it a cozy, rustic vibe perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld even more, though the sauce may thicken slightly; just add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating to loosen it back up.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for longer storage, up to 2 months. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a little broth if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave with a cover in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and is mild, you can experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even a bit of parmesan for a sharper flavor profile. Just keep in mind the melting point and saltiness to balance the dish.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken strips before adding the cream cheese?

Yes, searing the chicken first develops flavor and ensures the meat is cooked evenly. Adding cream cheese before the chicken is done can result in undercooked poultry and a less flavorful base.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free or vegan?

This version relies heavily on cream cheese and mozzarella, but for dairy-free or vegan options, you could try plant-based cream cheese alternatives and vegan cheese. The texture and flavor will differ, but it can still be delicious with some adjustments.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt can work as substitutes, though broth adds a richer flavor. Low-sodium versions allow better control over seasoning.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Easy Cream Cheese Chicken keeps well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it perfect for preparing ahead and enjoying quick, homemade meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken has quickly become one of those dishes I reach for when I want something both cozy and simple. It’s a beautiful balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and tender chicken with fresh mushrooms, all coming together in under 30 minutes. Give it a try and you might find yourself making it a favorite weeknight staple too.

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 21 reviews

Author: Hugo
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is a creamy, comforting one-pan dish featuring tender chicken strips sautéed with mushrooms and onions, then simmered in a velvety cream cheese and chicken broth sauce, topped with melted mozzarella. Served over steamed rice, it’s a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Instructions

Heat the skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil, coating the bottom evenly.
Sauté vegetables: Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften and release their moisture. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Prepare chicken: While the vegetables cook, slice the chicken breasts into strips and season them with kosher salt and black pepper evenly.
Sear the chicken: Increase heat to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning once, until the chicken strips develop a golden-brown sear and are almost cooked through.
Create the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add the cream cheese and low-sodium chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a creamy sauce incorporating the chicken pieces.
Add mozzarella and finish cooking: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the pan. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F and the cheese is melted. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Serve: Spoon the creamy chicken and mushrooms over steamed brown or white rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and mozzarella to lighten the dish.
Make sure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Serve with steamed rice to soak up the creamy sauce, or try with mashed potatoes or pasta for a different twist.
Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt content.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and simmering
Cuisine: American