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Easy Cream Cheese Chicken Recipe

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4.2 from 14 reviews

This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce made from cream cheese, garlic, onion, and Italian seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 large chicken breasts
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Sauce

  • 8 ounces cream cheese (a block of Philly), softened
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Soften Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft. Cut it into smaller pieces and set aside until needed to ensure it melts easily into the sauce.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to yield 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for balanced flavor.
  3. Cook Chicken: In a skillet, melt the butter and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
  4. Sauté Onions: Reduce the skillet heat to medium, add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and lightly brown, developing sweetness.
  5. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
  6. Make Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, which may take a few minutes.
  7. Combine & Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and warm it through in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to thin it. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve immediately for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Make sure to use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
  • Checking the chicken's internal temperature (165°F) guarantees safety and perfect doneness.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.