Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh minced garlic)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven or grill to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder. Cook the chicken (grill, pan-sear, or bake) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 18-20 minutes, depending on thickness.
- Step 2: While the chicken cooks, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic powder (or minced garlic) and Italian seasoning, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a low simmer. Immediately reduce the heat to low and whisk in the softened cream cheese until it is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 4: Stir in half (1/4 cup) of the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the sauce from the heat.
- Step 5: Place the fully cooked chicken breasts in a small, oven-safe baking dish. Spoon the Parmesan cream sauce generously and evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese over the sauced chicken. Place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; while this dish does not freeze well due to the cream base, storing the sauced chicken helps maintain moisture.
- To reheat, use the oven at 325°F or a covered skillet over low heat; if the sauce seems too thick or looks separated, whisk in a splash of milk or extra heavy cream during the warming process.
- Balance the richness of the Parmesan sauce by serving the chicken alongside a light, acidic side like steamed green beans tossed with lemon zest, or simple garlicky roasted asparagus.
- For the creamiest sauce, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before incorporating it in Step 3; this step is crucial for whisking out any lumps and achieving a flawlessly silky texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American