Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender, seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, savory parmesan and Italian herb sauce. Cooked on the stovetop, the dish is simple yet indulgent, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts to season them thoroughly.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest.
- Make the cream cheese sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the pan and stir continuously until the cream cheese starts to melt and soften further.
- Add chicken broth to sauce: Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to the melting cream cheese, stirring constantly to form a smooth, creamy sauce without lumps.
- Flavor the sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking the sauce on low heat for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes rich and creamy.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the sauce over them to coat well. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the sauce flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Once the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is thick and creamy, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired. Serve immediately for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a milder flavor.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for smoother sauce preparation.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
