Creamy Skillet Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Dinner (Print Version)

Whip up a truly simple and satisfying Cream Cheese Chicken dinner. Tender chicken, rich sauce, and fresh herbs make weeknights wonderful.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Gluten-Free (if using GF broth)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
02 - 8 oz block full-fat cream cheese
03 - 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
04 - 1/2 yellow onion, finely diced
05 - 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 5 oz fresh spinach

→ Flavor Boosters

07 - 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
08 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
09 - Salt, to taste
10 - Black pepper, to taste
11 - 1-2 tbsp olive oil

→ Optional Extras

12 - Pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)
13 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get those chicken breasts ready. I like to slice them in half lengthwise to make thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly and quickly, which is key for an Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe. Pat them super dry with paper towels—honestly, this is crucial for a good sear. Sprinkle both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a little of that smoked paprika. You want them well seasoned!
02 - Grab a large skillet, one that can handle a crowd, and heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in your diced onion. Let it soften for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just another minute until it's fragrant. Don't let it burn, though, or it'll get bitter—I've done that, and it's such a bummer!
03 - Push the onion and garlic to one side of the pan. Now, add your seasoned chicken cutlets in a single layer. Don't overcrowd the pan, or they won't brown properly; you might need to do this in batches. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes per side until they're beautifully golden brown. They don't need to be cooked through yet, just get that gorgeous color and a good sear.
04 - Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Those bits are pure flavor, trust me! Let the broth simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate all those good tastes, setting the stage for your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken.
05 - Reduce the heat to low. Now for the magic! Add the block of cream cheese to the simmering broth. Whisk it constantly until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the Easy Cream Cheese Chicken truly comes alive! Stir in the Italian seasoning and check for salt and pepper. Add a pinch more if it needs it—your taste buds are the boss here.
06 - Return the browned chicken to the skillet, nestling it into that luxurious cream cheese sauce. If you're using fresh spinach, add it now and stir gently until it just wilts into the sauce, maybe 2-3 minutes. Don't overcook it! The chicken should be cooked through now, juices running clear. Give it one last taste, adjust seasoning if needed, and honestly, you're ready for dinner! Enjoy your Easy Cream Cheese Chicken!

# Notes:

01 - Don't overcrowd the pan when browning chicken for that perfect sear.
02 - Leftovers are fantastic, but reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the sauce smooth.
03 - Swap fresh spinach for thawed, squeezed-dry frozen spinach if that's what you have.
04 - Serve with crusty bread or rice to soak up every drop of that dreamy sauce.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large skillet
02 - whisk
03 - wooden spoon

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 30g
Total Carbohydrate: 8g
Protein: 35g

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