Cream Cheese Chicken

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Cream Cheese Chicken is the kind of comfort food that makes you pause with every bite. Tender chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection and simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, and crispy bacon bits. The result is a dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to whip up—even on a busy weeknight.

This one-pan wonder is ideal for anyone craving a cozy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The velvety sauce clings to every slice of chicken, bursting with flavor and just enough decadence to make it dinner party-worthy. Whether you’re serving it over mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed veggies, this dish fits right into your easy dinner ideas list.

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Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Chicken

• Creamy & Savory: The sauce is ultra-rich, thanks to cream cheese, and gets a flavor boost from garlic and bacon.
• Fast & Easy: Minimal prep and cooks in one pan—perfect for quick weeknight meals.
• Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or low-carb options like cauliflower rice.
• Family Favorite: Both adults and kids will ask for seconds (and maybe thirds).
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats like a dream, making it ideal for leftovers.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Cream Cheese Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most popular choice for this recipe because they cook quickly and absorb the creamy flavors beautifully. However, you can also use boneless thighs if you prefer darker meat—they stay juicy and tender. Just make sure to pound the meat to an even thickness for even cooking. For best results, lightly season your chicken before searing to lock in flavor right from the start.

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Ingredients for the Cream Cheese Chicken

This dish relies on a handful of staple ingredients that come together to create a rich, flavorful sauce and juicy, perfectly cooked chicken.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender, they are the perfect base for soaking up that luscious cream sauce.
• Cream Cheese: The star of the sauce, lending a velvety texture and rich flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth and a touch of spice that balances the richness.
• Chicken Broth: Helps thin out the sauce and infuses extra flavor into the dish.
• Crispy Bacon: Brings a smoky, salty crunch that cuts through the creaminess.
• Heavy Cream: Enhances the sauce’s silkiness and makes it ultra-indulgent.
• Paprika: Adds color and a hint of smoky warmth.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of freshness and color as a final garnish.

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How To Make the Cream Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Base of the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the Bacon

Crumble in the cooked bacon and let it simmer for a few minutes to infuse the sauce.

Step 5: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve warm with your favorite side.

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How to Serve and Store Cream Cheese Chicken

This Cream Cheese Chicken recipe makes enough to serve about 4 people generously. It’s an ideal meal for small families, dinner guests, or even for meal prepping ahead of a busy week.

Serve it straight from the skillet with a generous spoonful of that creamy sauce on top. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in its sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

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What to Serve With Cream Cheese Chicken?

Mashed Potatoes

The creamy, garlicky sauce pairs beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes.

Steamed Broccoli

A fresh, crisp green vegetable like broccoli balances out the richness of the dish.

Pasta

Twirl some spaghetti or fettuccine through the sauce for an indulgent twist.

Rice Pilaf

A fluffy rice pilaf makes for a simple, comforting pairing.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts roasted with olive oil and herbs are a great match.

Cauliflower Rice

Perfect if you’re keeping it low-carb but still want a hearty side.

Garlic Bread

Use it to soak up every last bit of that incredible sauce.

Side Salad

A crisp, tangy salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness and refresh your palate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat?
Yes, but it will slightly alter the texture and richness of the sauce. Full-fat cream cheese yields the creamiest results, but low-fat versions still work for a lighter option.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. This dish is great for meal prep. Store it in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove when ready to serve. The flavors actually deepen after sitting for a day.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and tend to stay extra juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, just stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream until you reach the desired consistency.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or maybe a spicy twist? Did you serve it over pasta or veggies?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better together!

Check out more of my daily recipes on my Pinterest: Life With Livia on Pinterest

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Conclusion

Cream Cheese Chicken is one of those meals that proves easy dinners can still be exciting. With its creamy, flavorful sauce and satisfying portions, it’s guaranteed to earn a spot in your weekly dinner rotation. From family dinners to entertaining guests, this recipe delivers every time. Give it a try and make it your own—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.

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