8 Keto Chicken Recipes with Cream Cheese
Imagine tender, juicy chicken smothered in velvety cream cheese sauce that melts in your mouth. These keto chicken recipes with cream cheese are pure comfort food magic! I still remember the first time I made cream cheese stuffed chicken for my family—everyone went back for seconds.
These recipes are incredibly simple, taking just 30 minutes or less, and they’re perfect for busy weeknights. If you loved our popular garlic butter chicken, you’ll absolutely adore these creamy variations. Get ready to fall in love with low-carb cooking!
What Are Keto Chicken Recipes with Cream Cheese?
Ever wonder why cream cheese and chicken make such a dreamy duo? It’s the ultimate marriage of protein and healthy fats! These keto-friendly dishes combine succulent chicken with rich, tangy cream cheese to create restaurant-quality meals at home. As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these recipes prove it every time.
The cream cheese adds moisture, flavor, and that irresistible creamy texture we all crave. Ready to become the hero of your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love These Keto Chicken Recipes with Cream Cheese
Incredibly Creamy and Satisfying
The star of these dishes is definitely the luxurious cream cheese that transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory chicken and smooth, tangy cream cheese that coats your palate beautifully. The richness keeps you full for hours, making these recipes ideal for your keto lifestyle.
Budget-Friendly Home Cooking
Making these recipes at home saves you serious money compared to ordering takeout or dining out. A package of cream cheese costs just a few dollars, and when combined with affordable chicken breasts or thighs, you’ve got a gourmet meal for a fraction of restaurant prices. Plus, you control the ingredients and portions!
Versatile and Flavorful
From spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, these recipes offer endless flavor combinations. Each variation brings its own personality to the table. You can customize the seasonings to match your preferences, making these dishes truly your own. If you enjoyed our cheesy chicken casserole, you’ll find these recipes just as comforting and delicious.
Why not start meal prepping today? Your future self will thank you for having these delicious keto meals ready to go!
Recipe 1: Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Quick Overview
This elegant yet simple dish features juicy chicken breasts filled with seasoned cream cheese. The chicken stays incredibly moist while the filling becomes warm and gooey. Perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a restaurant-quality dinner.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Key Ingredients for Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and well-blended. The mixture should be creamy and easy to spread.
Step 2: Butterfly the Chicken
Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut horizontally through the middle of the chicken, stopping about half an inch from the edge. Open the chicken like a book. This creates a pocket for the filling.
Step 3: Stuff and Season
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly inside each butterflied chicken breast. Fold the chicken back over to close. Season the outside with paprika, salt, and pepper. Use toothpicks to secure if needed.
Step 4: Sear and Bake
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those delicious juices inside. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Recipe 2: Creamy Tuscan Chicken
Quick Overview
This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken with a luscious cream cheese sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. It’s restaurant-quality comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Key Ingredients for Creamy Tuscan Chicken
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Season and Cook Chicken
Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add cream cheese and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the creamy sauce over top. Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with extra sauce spooned over each piece of chicken.
Recipe 3: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Quick Overview
Rich garlic parmesan sauce made with cream cheese coats perfectly seared chicken in this quick weeknight dinner. The sauce is so good, you’ll want to make extra!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Key Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant but not brown. The butter and chicken drippings create amazing flavor.
Step 3: Create Creamy Sauce
Add cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
Step 4: Add Parmesan
Stir in grated parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely. The sauce should be thick and creamy.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over top. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately with extra parmesan.
Recipe 4: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Quick Overview
These colorful peppers are loaded with spicy buffalo chicken mixed with cream cheese for a cooling effect. It’s the perfect balance of heat and creaminess.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Key Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
- 4 large bell peppers, halved and seeded
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- Ranch dressing for drizzling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Peppers
Cut bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes. Arrange cut-side up in a baking dish.
Step 2: Make Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and diced celery. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Stuff the Peppers
Divide the buffalo chicken mixture evenly among the pepper halves. Press down gently to pack the filling.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Top each stuffed pepper with shredded mozzarella and blue cheese crumbles. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Step 5: Serve with Ranch
Let cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle with ranch dressing and serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side.
Recipe 5: Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Quick Overview
This recipe tastes like your favorite spinach artichoke dip wrapped in juicy chicken. It’s elegant enough for company but easy enough for any night.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Key Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
- 4 large chicken breasts
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Lemon zest from 1 lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Create the Filling
Mix cream cheese, spinach, artichokes, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic, and lemon zest in a bowl. The mixture should be thick and spreadable.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Cut a pocket into the side of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Step 3: Stuff Generously
Fill each pocket with the spinach artichoke mixture. Use toothpicks to secure the opening if needed.
Step 4: Sear and Bake
Sear stuffed chicken in an oven-safe skillet for 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a 375°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Slice
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks and slice to show off that beautiful filling. Serve hot.
Recipe 6: Jalapeño Popper Chicken
Quick Overview
All the flavors of jalapeño poppers stuffed inside tender chicken breasts. This recipe brings the perfect amount of heat with cooling cream cheese.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Key Ingredients for Jalapeño Popper Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 jalapeños, diced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Lime wedges for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Combine cream cheese, diced jalapeños, cheddar cheese, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until well incorporated.
Step 2: Butterfly and Stuff
Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting horizontally. Spread the jalapeño mixture inside each breast. Close and secure with toothpicks.
Step 3: Season Outside
Season the outside of each chicken breast with additional cumin, salt, and pepper for extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake Until Done
Place in a greased baking dish. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy
Top with extra cheese if desired and broil for 2 minutes. Serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
Recipe 7: Creamy Pesto Chicken
Quick Overview
Fresh basil pesto combines with cream cheese to create an incredibly aromatic and flavorful sauce. This Italian-inspired dish is both simple and sophisticated.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Key Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- Pine nuts for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook Chicken
Season and cook chicken breasts in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make Pesto Cream Sauce
In the same pan, add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until cream cheese melts. Add pesto and parmesan, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Toss in cherry tomato halves and cook for 2-3 minutes until they just start to soften. The tomatoes add brightness to the rich sauce.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return chicken to the pan and coat with the creamy pesto sauce. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Recipe 8: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Quick Overview
This deconstructed version of the classic French dish is easier to make but just as delicious. Layers of chicken, and Swiss cheese in a cream cheese sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Key Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- 3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup pork rind crumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cream Sauce
In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, chicken broth, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Layer the Casserole
In a greased 9×13 baking dish, layer half the chicken, and half the Swiss cheese. Pour half the cream sauce over top. Repeat layers.
Step 3: Add Topping
Sprinkle pork rind crumbs evenly over the top for a crispy keto-friendly crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake uncovered at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout and the top is golden.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set up nicely. Garnish with fresh parsley.
What to Serve These Keto Chicken Recipes With
These creamy chicken dishes pair beautifully with a variety of low-carb sides. Here are my favorite combinations:
Vegetable Sides: Roasted broccoli, cauliflower rice, sautéed green beans, or zucchini noodles complement the richness perfectly. The vegetables add freshness and crunch.
Salads: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or Caesar salad without croutons balances the creamy chicken beautifully. The acidity cuts through the richness.
Keto Bread: Serve with almond flour biscuits or cloud bread to soak up that delicious cream cheese sauce. You won’t miss regular bread at all!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Keto Chicken Recipes
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese
Always soften cream cheese before mixing. Cold cream cheese creates lumps in your sauce or filling. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches exactly 165°F. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough, especially with lean breasts. Pull it off heat right at temperature.
Pound Chicken to Even Thickness
This ensures even cooking throughout. Place chicken between plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet to about 1/2 inch thickness.
Let Meat Rest
Always rest cooked chicken for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender.
Customize the Heat Level
Adjust jalapeños and hot sauce to your preference. Remove jalapeño seeds for less heat, or add cayenne pepper for more kick.
Make Ahead for Meal Prep
Most of these recipes can be assembled ahead and refrigerated. Just add 5-10 minutes to baking time when cooking from cold.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to prevent the chicken from getting soggy.
Freezing Instructions
Most of these recipes freeze well for up to 3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating Methods
For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Meal Prep Tips
These recipes are perfect for meal prep. Cook chicken on Sunday and portion into containers with your chosen sides. Reheat throughout the week for quick, satisfying meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Cold Cream Cheese
Cold cream cheese won’t blend smoothly into sauces or fillings. It creates lumps and uneven texture. Always bring cream cheese to room temperature first for smooth, creamy results.
Overstuffing the Chicken
While it’s tempting to add lots of filling, overstuffing causes it to leak out during cooking. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per breast and secure openings well.
Not Securing Stuffed Chicken
Toothpicks are your friends! Secure the edges of stuffed chicken to keep the filling inside. Just remember to remove them before serving.
Cooking on High Heat
High heat causes cream cheese sauces to separate and become grainy. Always use medium to medium-low heat when making cream-based sauces.
Skipping the Searing Step
Searing chicken before baking creates a golden crust and locks in juices. Don’t skip this step even though it adds a few extra minutes.
Not Checking Internal Temperature
Always use a meat thermometer. Guessing doneness leads to either undercooked (unsafe) or overcooked (dry) chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for these recipes?
While you can use low-fat cream cheese, full-fat works best for keto and creates the richest, creamiest texture. Low-fat versions often contain more carbs and may result in a thinner sauce.
How do I prevent cream cheese sauces from separating?
Keep the heat at medium or lower and stir constantly while the cream cheese melts. Adding cream cheese gradually rather than all at once also helps. If separation occurs, remove from heat and whisk vigorously.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt can work in some recipes but will create a tangier, thinner sauce. It’s best in cold applications. For hot dishes, stick with cream cheese or add yogurt at the very end off heat.
What’s the best way to stuff chicken breasts?
Butterfly the chicken by cutting horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. You can also cut a deep slit in the side. Use toothpicks to secure the opening after stuffing.
Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Most of these dishes store well for 4 days refrigerated. Some, like the crack chicken and casserole, actually taste better the next day as flavors meld together.
Can I make these recipes in an air fryer?
Yes! Stuffed chicken breasts cook beautifully in an air fryer at 360°F for 18-22 minutes. chicken gets extra crispy. Just check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
How many net carbs are in these recipes?
Most of these recipes contain 3-6g net carbs per serving, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. Cream cheese is very low carb with about 1g per ounce.
What can I serve instead of cauliflower rice?
Try shirataki rice, cabbage noodles, roasted radishes, mashed cauliflower, or simply enjoy the chicken with extra vegetables. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) are also excellent.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380-450 |
| Protein | 35-42g |
| Fat | 25-32g |
| Net Carbs | 3-6g |
| Fiber | 1-2g |
| Sodium | 650-850mg |
Note: Nutrition values vary by recipe and serving size. These are approximate averages.
Final Thoughts
These 10 keto chicken recipes with cream cheese prove that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Each recipe brings something special to your dinner table, from the elegant spinach artichoke stuffed chicken to the addictive crack chicken.
The beauty of these dishes lies in their versatility. You can easily customize them to match your taste preferences and whatever ingredients you have on hand. Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that takes ordinary chicken from boring to brilliant.
I hope these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy delicious keto meals that your whole family will love. The best part? Most of these come together in 30-45 minutes or less, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Which recipe will you try first? I’d love to hear about your cooking adventures and any creative twists you add to these recipes. Happy cooking, and enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
