Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. This simple seasoning builds the first layer of flavor.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden. You are not cooking them through — just creating flavor and sealing in juices.

Transfer the chicken to your baking dish.

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Do not let it brown.

Pour in the heavy cream and whisk gently. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.

Now add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Pour the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce evenly over the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup Parmesan on top.

Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the top is golden and bubbly.

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top.

Serve warm and watch everyone fall in love.