Description
This Cream Cheese Chicken is a creamy, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s easy to make. With tender chicken simmered in a rich cream cheese sauce, it pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a cozy, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
For the 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)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil
Instructions
- Season the chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Add the seasonings:
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine chicken and sauce:
- Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve:
- Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken and garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Protein options: Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.