Description
This creamy and flavorful Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a rich and smooth garlic Parmesan sauce made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and Italian seasonings. It’s an easy stovetop dish that combines savory spices and creamy textures, making it a comforting meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly by cooking for 2-3 minutes to concentrate the flavors.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, cream cheese cubes, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over them and let everything simmer together for 5 minutes to heat the chicken through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the top before serving to add a fresh herbal note and appealing color.
Notes
- You can adjust the red pepper flakes according to your heat preference or omit them for a milder sauce.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- For an even richer dish, use full-fat heavy cream.
- This dish pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.