Description
This Easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe features tender, pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a creamy, flavorful garlic and Italian seasoning sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients for a rich and comforting meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise to make 4 thin pieces)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese (Philly, softened)
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Soften Cream Cheese: Microwave the cream cheese until very soft, then cut into smaller pieces and set aside for later use.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner pieces. Season both sides with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Chicken: Melt the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions: Reduce the heat to medium, add the chopped onions to the skillet, and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and lightly browned.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Add the chicken broth, softened cream cheese pieces, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, which may take a few minutes.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating the pieces with the creamy sauce. Warm the chicken through and, if the sauce is too thick, add a splash more chicken broth to thin it out. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Using softened cream cheese helps it blend smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
- You can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or stock.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
