Cheesy & Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta

Name: Cheesy & Creamy Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Optional fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 18, 2025

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There are certain meals that bring a sense of comfort with every bite—meals that feel like a warm hug after a long day. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one of those dishes. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with rich, savory aromas and turns an ordinary night into something special.

I remember the first time I had a dish like this. It was at a small family gathering, where my aunt, known for her incredible home-cooked meals, served a creamy, cheesy chicken dish that instantly won over everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, velvety cream sauce, and bold Parmesan flavor was unforgettable. It was indulgent but not overwhelming, rich yet balanced—exactly the kind of meal that makes you want to go back for seconds.

Since then, I’ve recreated my own version of that dish, keeping the same luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor while making it quick and easy to prepare. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is perfect for those evenings when you crave something decadent yet simple to put together.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

1. A Perfectly Balanced Creamy Sauce

The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and chicken broth creates a sauce that is both rich and flavorful without being too heavy. The garlic and Italian seasoning add layers of warmth, making every bite deeply satisfying.

2. Quick and Easy to Prepare

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner option. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal ready in no time.

3. Versatile and Customizable

This creamy chicken dish pairs well with almost anything—serve it over pasta, with mashed potatoes, or alongside roasted vegetables. Plus, you can easily tweak the ingredients to match your personal taste.

4. A High-Protein, Low-Carb Option

If you’re following a low-carb or keto-friendly diet, this dish is a fantastic choice. With plenty of protein and healthy fats, it’s satisfying while still being nutritious.

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Directions for a Perfectly Creamy Dish

Step 1: Season & Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
Stir in the cream cheese, whisking until smooth.
Add Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce is velvety and well combined.

Step 3: Simmer & Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories: ~420 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~4g
Protein: ~48g
Fat: ~24g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Fiber: ~0.5g
Sodium: ~450mg

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a luxurious, easy-to-make dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. A perfect meal for any night of the week!

Secrets to the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

A creamy chicken dish might seem simple, but there are key techniques that make all the difference in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

1. Use Good-Quality Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds a deeper, nuttier flavor than pre-packaged shredded cheese. If possible, use Parmigiano-Reggiano for the best results.

2. Sear the Chicken First

Cooking the chicken until golden brown before adding the sauce locks in moisture and adds an extra layer of flavor. The browned bits left in the pan also help build a more flavorful sauce.

3. Whisk the Sauce Until Smooth

To avoid lumps, add the cream cheese in small pieces and whisk it into the broth gradually. This ensures a silky, well-emulsified sauce.

4. Let the Chicken Simmer in the Sauce

Allowing the chicken to simmer in the sauce for a few minutes not only ensures that it’s fully cooked but also helps it absorb the flavors of the garlic and Parmesan.

Ways to Customize This Recipe

While this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking.

1. Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

To make this a one-pan meal, toss in some vegetables while the chicken is simmering. Some great options include:

Spinach: Adds color and extra nutrients.
Mushrooms: Enhance the umami depth of the sauce.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Provide a slight tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Asparagus or Broccoli: Perfect for a fresh, slightly crunchy addition.

2. Make It Spicy

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add:

¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for mild spice.
½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a more intense kick.
A dash of hot sauce for a tangy heat boost.

3. Swap the Chicken for a Different Protein

This sauce works well with other proteins too! Try using:

Shrimp for a seafood variation.
Boneless pork chops for a rich and hearty option.
Salmon for a creamy, decadent seafood dish.

4. Make It Extra Cheesy

Want an even richer flavor? Stir in:

½ cup of shredded mozzarella for an ultra-gooey texture.
A handful of sharp cheddar for a more robust cheesy kick.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The rich and velvety sauce in this dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

1. Pasta or Rice

Serve over fettuccine, penne, or angel hair pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
A side of garlic butter rice complements the flavors beautifully.

2. Mashed Potatoes or Cauliflower Mash

Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base for this dish.
For a low-carb option, mashed cauliflower is a great alternative.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans add a vibrant contrast.
Toss them with a little olive oil and roast them for added texture.

4. Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls

A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each to prevent the sauce from separating.
Oven: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes! Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or Gruyère are great alternatives that melt well and add bold flavors.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the chicken.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream instead of regular cream cheese. Substitute nutritional yeast for the Parmesan.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk while stirring to reach your desired consistency.

5. Can I cook this dish in the oven instead of on the stovetop?

Yes! After searing the chicken, place it in a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion: A Dish Worth Making Again and Again

This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish never fails to impress.

With its rich, velvety sauce and tender, juicy chicken, it’s a meal that feels elegant but requires minimal effort. Plus, with so many ways to customize and serve it, you can make it again and again without ever getting bored.

So the next time you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious chicken dish, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!