Healthy Creamy Chicken Skillet (No Cream)

Rich, cozy, guilt-free comfort

This Healthy Creamy Chicken Skillet (No Cream) is proof that comfort food doesn’t need heavy cream to taste indulgent. Juicy chicken breasts simmer in a silky, cheesy sauce made with cream cheese, mozzarella, and savory sun-dried tomatoes for bold, Italian-inspired flavor. It’s the perfect easy chicken dinner for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing yet satisfying. Everything cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time to relax. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for family, this lighter creamy chicken recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort—and it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients List

• 4 (6 oz) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• ½ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth (or dry white wine)
• 4 oz plain reduced-fat cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For serving (optional):

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.

• Large skillet with lid
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

1. Season the chicken. Pat chicken breasts dry, then season both sides with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Sear the chicken. Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove to a plate.
3. Cook aromatics. Add remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the sauce. Add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
5. Make it creamy. Lower heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add mozzarella and stir until the sauce is glossy and slightly thick.
6. Finish the dish. Return chicken to skillet and simmer 2–3 minutes, spooning sauce over the top. Garnish if desired and serve warm.

Pro Tips

• Make it lighter: Use part-skim mozzarella for fewer calories.
• Meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Serving idea: Pair with steamed broccoli, zucchini noodles, or brown rice.
• Flavor boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

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