This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is your go-to solution for a quick and delicious dinner! In just 30 minutes, you can create a creamy garlic herb sauce that elevates ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines pantry staples to deliver big flavors without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Creamy Flavor: The cream cheese transforms into a rich sauce that adds depth to the dish.
- Versatile Dish: Pair it with rice, pasta, or vegetables for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Minimal Cleanup: One skillet means less time spent washing up after dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and allows for the perfect sear on the chicken.
- Microwave-safe bowl: This makes softening the cream cheese quick and easy without any mess.
- Cutting board & Knife: A sharp knife on a sturdy cutting board simplifies prep work, ensuring safety and efficiency.
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 Cream Cheese Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese (a block of Philly) (softened)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh chopped parsley (to taste)
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Step 1: Soften 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
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have four thinner pieces. Season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Melt butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (165F). Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 4: Sauté Onions
Reduce heat to medium. Add onions to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
Step 5: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 6: Create the Sauce
Add chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir until smooth; this may take a few minutes.
Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return chicken to skillet to warm through. If needed, add more chicken broth to thin out the sauce. Season with extra salt & pepper if desired. Sprinkle with parsley before serving immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Easy Cream Cheese Chicken!
How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
This easy cream cheese chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience.
Over Rice
- Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all the delicious sauce. White, brown, or jasmine rice are great options.
With Pasta
- Pair it with your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or penne. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the noodles for a comforting dish.
In a Wrap
- Use tortillas or wraps to create a quick and satisfying meal. Add some fresh veggies for crunch and flavor.
On a Salad
- Serve the chicken on top of mixed greens for a lighter option. Drizzle with your favorite dressing for added zest.
With Crusty Bread
- Enjoy the dish with slices of crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy garlic herb sauce.
How to Perfect Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
To ensure your easy cream cheese chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use softened cream cheese – Soften it in the microwave or at room temperature to make mixing easier and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook chicken in batches if necessary. This allows for even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference.
- Add veggies – Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Serve hot – This dish is best enjoyed right after cooking when it’s warm and creamy.
- Thicken or thin the sauce – If too thick, add more chicken broth; if too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Pairing side dishes with easy cream cheese chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.
- Steamed Broccoli – A light and healthy option that adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender; it adds a wonderful crunch and flavor contrast.
- Cauliflower Rice – A low-carb alternative that pairs well with the creamy sauce while keeping your meal light.
- Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad that adds texture and freshness alongside the rich chicken dish.
- Grilled Zucchini – Simple grilled zucchini brings a smoky flavor that balances out the creaminess of the sauce.
- Sweet Potato Fries – These crispy fries offer a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Mixed Green Salad – A fresh salad with assorted greens provides a refreshing balance to this hearty main course.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Easy Cream Cheese Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:
Not Softening the Cream Cheese: If you don’t soften the cream cheese properly, it will be difficult to mix into a smooth sauce. Microwave it for about 20-30 seconds before use.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from heat immediately.
Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Use garlic powder, salt, and pepper generously to enhance taste.
Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the chicken nicely. Add extra chicken broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Rushing the Cooking Process: Taking your time allows flavors to develop better. Sauté onions until golden for a richer taste in your dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Easy Cream Cheese Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
- You can freeze this meal for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
Reheating Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; bake until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed 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 or bell peppers into the sauce for added nutrition and color.
What can I serve with Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or even a simple green salad.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and ensure your broth is also dairy-free.
How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Final Thoughts
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is not only quick but also incredibly versatile. This creamy dish can be customized with various herbs and vegetables based on your preference. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or looking for comfort food, this recipe will surely delight your taste buds!
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Looking for a fast yet delicious dinner option? This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe delivers creamy, savory flavors in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Tender chicken breasts simmer in a rich garlic herb cream cheese sauce that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal. Serve it over rice, pasta, or even in wraps for a satisfying dish that the whole family will love. With minimal cleanup required, you’ll spend less time washing up and more time enjoying your delicious creation!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Italian seasoning to taste
- Crushed red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- Soften cream cheese by microwaving until soft; set aside.
- Cut chicken breasts lengthwise into four pieces and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet; sauté onions for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic; cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet to warm through; adjust sauce consistency if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken with sauce (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
