Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked in a flavorful creamy sauce made with cream cheese, garlic, and Italian seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a comforting and rich dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that pairs well with rice, pasta, or vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
- Prepare Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft, then cut into smaller pieces and set aside. This will help it melt smoothly into the sauce later.
- Prepare Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil together in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken pieces and cook each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Transfer cooked chicken to a plate to rest.
- Sauté Onions: Reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are tender and lightly browned, building the flavor base for the sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, then add the softened cream cheese, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy, which may take a few minutes.
- Combine and Warm: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it well with the creamy sauce. Warm through for a few minutes; add extra chicken broth if the sauce is too thick. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top if desired and serve immediately with your choice of side dishes.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- For a milder dish, reduce or omit crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently, adding a splash of broth to loosen sauce.
