Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

This easy cream cheese chicken is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can create a rich and creamy dish that will impress your family and friends. The combination of cream cheese and garlic herbs transforms simple chicken breasts into a delicious meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Texture: The cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with rice, pasta, or vegetables to suit your taste and dietary needs.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this dish is easy to whip up without needing special grocery runs.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this easy cream cheese chicken, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken, creating a flavorful crust.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for softening the cream cheese quickly and efficiently before mixing it into the sauce.

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: 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 the garlic powder and some salt & pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Melt the butter and oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until golden and cooked through (165F). Transfer the chicken to a plate.

Step 4: Sauté Onions

Reduce heat to medium, then add onions to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes or until softened and lightly browned.

Step 5: Add Garlic

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

Step 6: Create the Sauce

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

Step 7: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and warm through. If needed, thin out the sauce with an extra splash of chicken broth. Adjust seasoning with salt & pepper if desired. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving immediately.

How to Serve Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

This easy cream cheese chicken dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides or served in unique ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Rice

• Serve the creamy chicken over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite flavorful.

With Pasta

• Toss the chicken and sauce with your favorite pasta for a comforting dish. Penne or fettuccine work well to hold onto the creamy sauce.

On a Salad

• Slice the chicken and place it on a fresh mixed green salad. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with toppings like lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado for a fun twist on traditional tacos.

Stuffed Peppers

• Use the cream cheese chicken mixture to fill bell peppers. Bake until the peppers are tender for a satisfying and colorful dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to help scoop up the creamy sauce. This is perfect for those who love dipping!

How to Perfect Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

To ensure that your easy cream cheese chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips for an even better experience.

• Use softened cream cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This allows for easier blending into a smooth sauce.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your sauce before serving. You can always add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor.

• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your chicken while it cooks. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, so check that it reaches 165°F internally without going beyond that temperature.

• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to swap in fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of dried ones for an aromatic boost.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just add freshly cooked chicken to warm it up!

Best Side Dishes for Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

To complement your easy cream cheese chicken, consider these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with its creamy flavors.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side that pairs perfectly with rich sauces.

2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the chicken dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers provides a sweet contrast and adds depth to your meal.

4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch against the creaminess of the main dish.

5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, which helps cut through the richness of the cream cheese sauce.

6. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice as a light base that absorbs all those delicious flavors from the sauce.

7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and fun texture to accompany this creamy chicken dish.

8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and fiber, making them an excellent pairing with savory dishes like this one.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Cream Cheese Chicken, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese can make it difficult to blend into a smooth sauce. Always soften the cream cheese in the microwave beforehand.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from the heat immediately.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping seasoning can result in bland flavors. Don’t forget to season the chicken and taste the sauce before serving.
• Ignoring Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth. Ensure it’s creamy but not overly thick for the best results.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using stale herbs or old garlic can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Cream Cheese Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Easy Cream Cheese Chicken that may help you as you prepare this dish.

What is Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is a quick and delicious meal featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy garlic herb sauce made from cream cheese.

How do I customize Easy Cream Cheese Chicken?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or by using different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with turkey or even beef if you prefer a different protein option.

How do I make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken healthier?

To make it healthier, you can use low-fat cream cheese and serve it alongside a salad or steamed vegetables instead of pasta or rice.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cream Cheese Chicken is not only quick to prepare but also versatile for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs and vegetables, making it suitable for various tastes. Give this delicious recipe a try tonight!