1) Bike fit = make sure bike is the right size and adjusted correctly for you. A good LBS should offer a basic fitting as part of their sales package.
2) Quality bike shorts = good quality that fit correctly. The chamois (padding) should be minimal. It shouldn't feel like you are wearing a diaper. More padding is not better, quality design and materials are. Good shorts also control moisture that can contribute to chaffing.
3) Padded saddle or saddle pad = No. Cushy saddles, just like cushy chamois, are not the answer. Either or both can actually make the situation worse by shifting pressure from the sit bones (ischial tuberosities) to the surrounding soft tissue.
4) Chamois creme = Maybe, in moderation. A thin application to friction areas should be all that is needed. If you have to slather it on, you are trying to mask another problem.
5) Time in the saddle = Yes. If the bike fits and you have quality shorts, liners or bibs, you need to give yourself a chance to toughen up a bit. Watch for actual skin breakdown and give yourself some time to recover between rides.
6) Cleanliness = Keeping yourself clean and dry and washing your riding shorts regularly can help prevent chaffing or skin infections.

Don't start swapping saddles until you have put in a few weeks of regular riding. I've been riding for years and three years ago spent three months off the bikes due to a foot injury. When I returned to riding, I found myself mildly sore after only 20-30 miles when I had been doing 50-100 miles comfortably the previous season.