If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with minimal fuss, this Classic Cream Cheese Chicken recipe is your answer. It’s creamy, flavorful, and cooks up in just one skillet, making it a go-to for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting.
The magic starts with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are lean yet hearty. Cream cheese is the star here, providing that luscious texture we all love. You'll add chicken broth for depth and moisture. Parmesan cheese lends a nutty, savory kick, while heavy cream ensures the sauce is rich and indulgent. Onion and garlic form the aromatic base, setting the stage for flavor. A touch of salt and black pepper seasons the chicken perfectly. Olive oil and butter work together to sauté the aromatics and brown the chicken beautifully. Dried thyme and basil bring herbal notes that complement the creaminess. Finally, a splash of lemon juice brightens the whole dish.
This chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness. You might also enjoy it over a bed of rice or pasta, which will soak up that delicious sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures it's ready when you need to transfer the skillet. On the stovetop, heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium. Once the butter is melted and the oil shimmers, toss in the onion and garlic. Sauté them just until they’re fragrant and the onion turns translucent — this takes about 2-3 minutes.
Push the aromatics to the side of the skillet and lay your chicken breasts in, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on both sides. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side. Don’t worry about cooking it through just yet; the oven will finish the job.
While the chicken is browning, mix together the cream cheese, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, dried thyme, basil, and lemon juice in a bowl. This will be your creamy sauce. Once the chicken is nice and golden, pour this mixture over it in the skillet. Use a spatula to ensure the sauce covers everything evenly.
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through — you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
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