Description
Southwest Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet made in one pan with tender chicken, bold spices, and a smooth creamy sauce that comes together quickly for an easy dinner.
Ingredients
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into pieces
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup corn (optional)
fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken pieces, letting them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes so they develop a light golden surface before stirring
2. Stir the chicken and add chopped onion, cooking for another 2–3 minutes until the onion softens and blends into the base flavor
3. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, making sure it doesn’t brown or turn bitter
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies along with chili powder and cumin, stirring well so the spices coat the chicken evenly
5. Add chicken broth and let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes so the flavors combine and a light sauce base forms
6. Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese in small pieces, stirring gradually as it melts into the sauce to create a smooth, creamy texture
7. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and fully coats the chicken, then add corn if using and adjust seasoning to taste
8. Let the skillet sit for 2 minutes before serving so the sauce settles and reaches the right consistency
Notes
Cutting cream cheese into small pieces helps it melt faster and prevents lumps in the sauce
Keep the heat low when adding cream cheese to avoid separating the sauce or creating a grainy texture
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of broth or water and stir gently to loosen it
Letting the dish rest briefly before serving helps the sauce thicken naturally and improves overall texture
For reheating, warm slowly and add a bit of liquid to restore the creamy consistency
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 34g
Keywords: Southwest Cream Cheese Chicken Skillet