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Homemade Easy Chicken in Cream Sauce for Two photo

Easy Chicken in Cream Sauce for Two

This Easy Chicken in Cream Sauce for Two is a quick, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for cozy dinners or special weeknights.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Chicken, Creamy, Easy, Quick
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 0.5 red bell pepper finely diced
  • 0.25 cup milk
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast or 3 small cutlets
  • 3 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon used for sautéing, rest for sauce
  • 0.25 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup half and half
  • 0.25 cup shredded Parmesan cheese about 1 oz
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces orzo or rice about 2/3 cup

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

  • Season the chicken breast or cutlets with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. If using a large chicken breast, slice it in half horizontally for even cooking.

Sauté the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.

Cook the Bell Pepper

  • Add finely diced red bell pepper to the same skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened.

Make the Cream Sauce

  • Reduce heat to low, add remaining butter to skillet. Once melted, stir in chicken broth, half and half, and milk. Whisk until combined, then add shredded Parmesan and chopped basil. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is creamy.

Combine and Serve

  • Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over it. Simmer a few minutes to meld flavors. Cook orzo or rice according to package instructions. Serve chicken with cream sauce over orzo or rice, garnished with fresh basil if desired.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Spatula
  • Pot

Notes

  • Use low-fat milk or dairy-free alternatives to lighten the sauce.
  • Substitute whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
  • Add spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables and nutrition.
  • Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F) to avoid overcooking.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat gently.