Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts cooked in a rich and creamy sauce made from cream cheese, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Seasoned with garlic, onion powder, and Italian herbs, this skillet dish is perfect for a quick, comforting meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
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 the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
- Melt Cream Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the same skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese begins to melt and incorporate with the pan drippings.
- Create the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to the melting cream cheese, mixing until you form a smooth sauce without lumps.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue cooking the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Cook Chicken in Sauce: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, spoon the creamy sauce over them, and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish as an optional garnish, then serve hot for a deliciously creamy and comforting meal.
Notes
- For best results, use chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before returning the chicken.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
