Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, tangy cream cheese sauce infused with garlic and Italian herbs. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, yet it feels indulgent enough for a special occasion. The simplicity of the ingredients doesn’t compromise the depth of flavor, and it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and 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), for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Microwave the cream cheese until very soft, cut it into smaller pieces, and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season them with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium, add the chopped onions to the skillet, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth, which may take a few minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm through in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Wine Infusion: I sometimes replace half of the chicken broth with a dry white wine like pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc for a subtle depth of flavor.
- Herb Adjustments: Experimenting with different herbs or spices, such as smoked paprika, can offer a delightful twist to the sauce.
- Protein Alternatives: Using chicken thighs instead of breasts provides a richer taste; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat in a saucepan until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much, I add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
- Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream cheese sauce may change texture upon thawing.
FAQs
What can I serve with cream cheese chicken?
I find that this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta to soak up the creamy sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad also complement it well.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but keep in mind that the sauce may be slightly less creamy and rich compared to using full-fat cream cheese.
How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
I use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating it’s safe to eat.
Is this recipe spicy?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than significant heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce or omit them.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the flavor and nutritional profile of the meal.
Conclusion
This easy cream cheese chicken recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and indulgence. With its quick preparation and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
Easy Cream Cheese Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Rich, creamy, and flavorful, this cream cheese chicken recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a tangy cream cheese garlic sauce infused with Italian herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, it’s a quick and satisfying meal idea.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and 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), for garnish
Instructions
- Microwave the cream cheese until very soft, cut it into smaller pieces, and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Sauté onions in the same skillet for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add chicken broth, softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet, warming it in the sauce. Add more chicken broth if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if desired, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Optional Enhancements: Replace half of the chicken broth with dry white wine for added depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Consider adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
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