Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
Transform an ordinary Chicken dinner into a culinary masterpiece with this indulgent Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Ready in just 30 minutes, it features tender chicken breasts bathed in a velvety cream cheese sauce infused with garlic and aromatic herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is as simple as it is satisfying. Plus, most of the ingredients are likely already in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe
Say goodbye to boring chicken dinners! This recipe delivers rich, restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. The smooth and tangy cream cheese sauce perfectly balances garlic and Italian herbs, creating a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Using cream cheese as the base ensures a creamy consistency without heavy cream or complicated techniques. It’s the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or even vegetables.
Key Ingredients for Success Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
For the chicken:
- Cream cheese: Philadelphia is ideal for its smooth texture and superior melting qualities. Soften it beforehand for best results.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. Slice them into cutlets for quicker cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, salt, and pepper add a flavorful foundation to the chicken.
For the sauce:
- Butter & olive oil: A rich, flavorful base that prevents burning while sautéing.
- Onions & garlic: Sweet Vidalia onions and fresh garlic form the aromatic core of the sauce.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and balances the creaminess.
- Italian seasoning: Elevates the flavor with a blend of classic herbs.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.
How to Make Easy Cream Cheese Chicken in 30 Minutes
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Microwave cream cheese until very soft, then cube it for smooth melting.
- Slice chicken breasts horizontally into thin cutlets and season generously with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Pan-Fry to Perfection
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken cutlets for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Sauté onions until softened, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Gradually add the cubed cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken to the skillet, coating each piece with the sauce. Simmer briefly to meld the flavors.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Room temperature cream cheese melts more smoothly. If short on time, microwave it in small cubes for even softening.
- Customize the sauce consistency with extra broth or water to suit your preference.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Creative Variations
- Wine-infused sauce: Replace half the broth with dry white wine like Pinot Grigio for added depth.
- Protein swaps: Try chicken thighs for richer flavor or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Spice it up: Add smoked paprika, or experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Serving Suggestions
This cream cheese chicken is best served over:
- Pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce.
- Lighter options like roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep ingredients like sliced chicken, chopped onions, and measured seasonings ahead of time for quicker cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce smooth.
This Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken with Cream Cheese Sauce is a weeknight game-changer. With its tender chicken and rich, herb-infused sauce, it’s a dish that brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your kitchen with ease. Serve it once, and your family will request it again and again!
Enjoy 😋