First Step: Preparing the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them brown nicely when seared. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate to rest. This will keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Second Step: Preparing the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan, allowing it to melt. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic (about 2-3 cloves) and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. You can also add a small onion, finely chopped, at this stage for extra flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
2. Add the Cream and Broth: Once the garlic has softened, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. The cream will thicken slightly as it heats up, forming the base of the sauce. Allow it to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the Cheeses: Once the cream mixture has thickened slightly, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the sauce until the cheeses have completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This will take 2-3 minutes.
4. Season the Sauce: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed. The sauce should be creamy with a slight tang from the Parmesan and a mild herby flavor.

Third Step: Combining the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return the Chicken to the Skillet: Place the seared chicken breasts back into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to coat it. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for 5-7 minutes to soak up the flavors and ensure it is fully cooked through. The sauce should thicken slightly during this time, creating a luscious coating over the chicken.
2. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C). If necessary, cook for a few more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
3. Garnish and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Fourth Step: Serving Suggestions

Creamy Cheese Chicken is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are a few options to consider:

1. With Pasta: Serve the chicken and creamy cheese sauce over a bed of linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, making for a comforting and filling meal.
2. With Rice: For a simpler, lighter option, serve the chicken over a bed of steamed white or brown rice. The rice will soak up the creamy sauce and make each bite as flavorful as the last.
3. With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots complement the richness of the creamy chicken. They add a nice balance of flavors and textures.
4. With Mashed Potatoes: If you’re craving something indulgent, serve the creamy chicken with mashed potatoes. The mashed potatoes are the perfect vehicle for soaking up the extra cheese sauce.