Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender seared chicken breasts cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with cream cheese, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Ready in just 35 minutes, this comforting skillet dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 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
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare and season chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Sear chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Melt cream cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese begins to melt and smooth out.
- Add chicken broth: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, combining it with the melted cream cheese to form a creamy sauce.
- Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Simmer chicken in sauce: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For extra richness, use butter instead of olive oil to sear the chicken.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables to make a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.