If you are looking for a comforting weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly, then this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe is just what you need. Imagine tender strips of chicken breast cooked to golden perfection, tossed with sautéed mushrooms and onions, all brought together by the creamy richness of melted cream cheese and the gooey, irresistible stretch of mozzarella. It’s a deliciously satisfying dish that any home cook can whip up in about 30 minutes, delivering big flavor without any fuss. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and collectively create the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in this dish. Each component plays an essential role — from the tender chicken and earthy mushrooms to the creamy, melty cheeses that make this recipe unforgettable.
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: This adds a subtle fruitiness and is perfect for sautéing without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Brings a gentle sweetness and depth when cooked down with mushrooms.
- 8 oz. white button mushrooms (sliced): Adds earthiness and meaty texture that complements the chicken wonderfully.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Injects a fragrant zing and warmth that elevates the entire dish.
- 1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breast (cut in strips): The lean protein star of the meal, tender and quick to cook in strips.
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
- 4 oz. plain cream cheese (regular or reduced-fat): Provides a luscious, creamy base that ties all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce moist while deepening the savory notes.
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, irresistible finish that your whole family will love.
- Steamed brown or white rice: The perfect canvas to soak up all the creamy goodness.
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and brightness to finish off the dish beautifully.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding the extra-virgin olive oil. Once warm, toss in the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté them gently for about 4-5 minutes until they release their juices and become wonderfully tender. Adding the minced garlic last makes sure it cooks just enough to shine without burning — give it about 30 seconds and your kitchen will smell amazing already!
Step 2: Prepare and Season the Chicken
While your veggies are cooking, slice your chicken breasts into strips. Season them liberally with kosher salt and black pepper. This simple seasoning helps build a flavorful crust during cooking and accentuates the natural taste of the chicken strips.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Strips
Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan with the mushrooms and onions. Sear them for 6 to 8 minutes, making sure to flip once so each side gets a lovely golden-brown color. This step locks in juices and adds a delicious caramelized flavor that makes this dish truly special.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the chicken is nicely browned, stir in the cream cheese and chicken broth. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and combines into a silky, rich sauce that coats every strip and mushroom slice. This is where the magic happens — that creamy texture is the heart of the Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe.
Step 5: Add the Mozzarella and Finish Cooking
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the skillet. Cover the pan, reduce the heat slightly, and let the cheese melt for 2 to 3 minutes while the chicken finishes cooking through. The cheese should be gooey and delicious, melding perfectly with the creamy sauce. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal chicken temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s perfectly cooked.
Step 6: Serve it Up
Finally, serve all that creamy, cheesy goodness over a bed of steamed brown or white rice. Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh note. Now you’ve got a plate full of rich flavors and comforting textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish of fresh parsley brightens the rich creaminess and adds a lovely green contrast to the golden chicken and white cheese. You can also try finely grated Parmesan for an extra savory kick or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, which soaks up the creamy sauce like a dream. For an extra veggie boost, serve it alongside steamed or roasted green beans, sautéed spinach, or a crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the sides balances perfectly with the richness of the chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe over creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes instead of rice. Another idea is to pile the creamy chicken onto toasted baguette slices for a delicious open-faced sandwich that’s perfect for casual gatherings or lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days and maintain all their creamy goodness. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to keep the texture at its best.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the cream cheese and mozzarella may change slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze, portion the chicken into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and use within 2 months for optimal flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and prevent the chicken from drying out. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help revive the creaminess during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use different types of mushrooms for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white button mushrooms are classic and budget-friendly, cremini or baby bella mushrooms add a deeper, earthier flavor if you want to mix it up. Just slice them similarly so they cook evenly.
Is it okay to use full-fat cream cheese or should I go for reduced fat?
Either works perfectly. Full-fat cream cheese will give a richer, silkier sauce, but reduced-fat cream cheese makes the dish a bit lighter without sacrificing much on creaminess.
Can I prepare this recipe without mozzarella cheese?
You can skip the mozzarella if you want a lighter finish, but the melted cheese adds that delicious gooey texture. Alternatively, try using a mild cheddar or provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
What can I serve if I want a low-carb option?
Instead of rice, serve the chicken and creamy mushrooms over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles. Both soak up the sauce well and keep the meal low carb and satisfying.
How do I make sure the chicken stays tender?
Cutting the chicken into even strips and not overcrowding the pan helps achieve an even sear. Cooking over medium-high heat until just golden and ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe is a true lifesaver for busy nights when you want something comforting, cozy, and oh-so-delicious without any complicated steps. Its creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender chicken and savory mushrooms is a flavor combination that wins hearts every time. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become a staple recipe in your kitchen, perfect for family dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort.
Print
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken with Mushrooms and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and creamy skillet dish featuring tender chicken strips cooked with sautéed mushrooms and onions, all coated in a rich cream cheese sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. Perfectly paired with steamed rice, this comforting meal is simple to prepare in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 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
Sauce and Cheese
- 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
To Serve
- Steamed brown or white rice
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the extra-virgin olive oil to warm up.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Prepare the chicken: While the vegetables cook, slice the boneless skinless chicken breasts into strips and season them evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Sear the chicken: Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once until the chicken is golden brown on all sides.
- Add cream cheese sauce: Lower the heat slightly and stir in the cream cheese and chicken broth until the cream cheese melts and combines into a creamy sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy chicken and mushroom mixture over steamed brown or white rice and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Make sure to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- You can substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or Italian herbs when seasoning the chicken.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.
