Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

This easy cream cheese chicken is a quick and delicious meal that can be made in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish features a creamy garlic herb sauce made from pantry staples. The combination of tender chicken breasts and rich cream cheese makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to whip up something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy garlic herb sauce elevates the chicken, giving it a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, pasta, or with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
• Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you likely have everything you need on hand already.
• Impress Your Guests: Serve this dish at your next family dinner or gathering, and watch everyone rave about the flavors!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Microwave
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps develop a nice golden crust on the chicken.
• Microwave: Softens cream cheese quickly for easier mixing into the sauce.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting chicken and vegetables.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken and chopping onions effortless.

Ingredients

This easy cream cheese chicken is a 30-minute meal made with pantry staples! Transform a block of cream cheese into the best creamy garlic herb sauce.

For the Chicken

• 8 ounces cream cheese (a block of Philly) (softened)
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional, to taste)

How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese

Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut it into smaller pieces and set aside until needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thinner pieces.
2. Season them with garlic powder and some salt & pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Melt butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken:
1. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through (165F).
2. Transfer the chicken to a plate once done.

Step 4: Sauté Onions

Reduce heat to medium. Add onions to the skillet:
1. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened and lightly browned.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

Add in chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes:
1. Stir until smooth; this may take a few minutes.

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add chicken back to the skillet:
1. Warm through while stirring gently.
2. If needed, thin out sauce with extra chicken broth.
3. Adjust seasoning with extra salt & pepper if necessary.
4. Sprinkle with parsley if desired before serving immediately.

Enjoy this delightful easy cream cheese chicken as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

This easy cream cheese chicken is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want a simple plate or a complete meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Over Rice

• Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. White rice or brown rice both work well.

With Pasta

• Pair the chicken with your favorite pasta. The sauce clings beautifully to noodles, making each bite deliciously creamy.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it atop mixed greens. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft corn tortillas. Top with avocado, salsa, and cilantro for a twist on traditional tacos.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that rich garlic herb sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

To make your easy cream cheese chicken even better, consider these helpful tips for a flawless dish every time.

• Use Softened Cream Cheese – Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to create a smooth and creamy sauce without lumps.
• Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak the garlic powder and Italian seasoning according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly – Always check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
• Add Fresh Herbs – Enhance the dish by adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with parsley for additional flavor.
• Experiment with Broth – Try using different flavors of broth (like vegetable or herb-infused) to add depth to your sauce.
• Thicken Sauce If Needed – If the sauce is too thin, simply cook it down a bit longer or add a touch of plant-based gelling agent like agar-agar.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

Complement your easy cream cheese chicken with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds variety and enhances the overall meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic pair perfectly with the rich sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Steamed Asparagus – Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil adds brightness and freshness alongside the creamy chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a nutritious alternative to heavier sides.
5. Brussels Sprouts – Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a nice crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft chicken.
6. Cauliflower Rice – For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice sautéed with herbs as an excellent base for this dish.
7. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous cooked in broth makes an excellent accompaniment that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
8. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser during summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying to make the perfect Easy Cream Cheese Chicken. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the softening step: Not softening the cream cheese can lead to a lumpy sauce. Always microwave it for a few seconds until very soft.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long makes it dry. Aim for 5-6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Don’t forget to season both the chicken and the sauce generously with salt and pepper.
• Rushing the sauce: If you rush the mixing, your sauce may not smooth out properly. Stir patiently until all ingredients are well combined.
• Not adjusting the thickness: If the sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best taste.

Freezing Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Easy Cream Cheese Chicken.

How can I customize Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?

You can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Turkey breast works just as well in this recipe and will still deliver great taste.

Is Easy Cream Cheese Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely throughout the week.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?

Consider serving it with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy garlic herb sauce, it’s sure to please everyone at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and creamy delight that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic herb sauce made from cream cheese and pantry staples. Whether served over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables, this versatile meal promises to impress both family and guests alike.

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Ingredients

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• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Microwave the cream cheese until soft. Cut into smaller pieces and set aside.
2. Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (165F). Remove from the skillet.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and sauté onions for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Stir in chicken broth, cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet, warming it through while stirring gently. Adjust thickness with extra broth if necessary. Serve warm.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 135mg