Who doesn’t enjoy a warm, creamy dish that feels just like home? Dive into the savory world of creamy smothered chicken, an irresistible classic poised to become a staple in your recipe book. Enveloped in a velvety sauce rich with flavor, this dish is perfect for those cozy dinners with family or extravagant gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
To create this culinary delight, you will need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Equipments
Prepare the following tools for this recipe:
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all of your ingredients on the kitchen counter for easy access. This will save you time as you progress through the cooking process. Measure out the heavy cream, chicken broth, and spices. Slice the onion thinly and mince the garlic cloves. Having a clean, organized space makes cooking more enjoyable.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Generously season both sides of your chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This creates a flavorful base that combines beautifully with the creamy sauce. Make sure to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to help the spices adhere better and to promote a nice sear when cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This initial sear locks in the juices, keeping your chicken tender and juicy.
Step 4: Make the Smothering Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add butter. When it’s melted, add the sliced onions and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Smother the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top of each piece to ensure it’s well coated. Simmer everything together for another 5 minutes to marry the flavors, then top with freshly chopped parsley just before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken
This creamy smothered chicken pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve it atop a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered rice. The creamy sauce adds richness to each bite, making even the simplest sides stand out.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your creamy smothered chicken, use high-quality cream and fresh spices. Avoid adding too much salt initially, as it’s always easier to add more at the end. If you find the sauce too thick, a splash of additional chicken broth can help achieve the desired consistency.
Bump Up the Protein with Our Creamy Chicken Boost
For those looking to increase their protein intake, this creamy chicken recipe can easily be adjusted. Consider adding sliced mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra vegetables and nutrients. You can also pair it with a protein-rich side such as quinoa or chickpea salad, making your meal both hearty and healthy.
Low Carb Heaven: A Special Spin on Our Creamy Delight
For a low carb variation of this recipe, replace regular cream with a half-and-half mix of almond milk and cream cheese for a similar creamy effect while cutting down on carbs. Serve your creamy chicken with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a vibrant salad for a satisfying, low-carb dinner.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the dish for up to one month. Make sure to thaw thoroughly before reheating to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs also work well in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I know when my sauce is thick enough?
Look for a consistency that easily coats the back of a spoon. If it runs off quickly, let it simmer a bit longer.
Can I use different herbs if I don’t like Italian seasoning?
Absolutely! Try experimenting with thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to garnish this dish?
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Rediscover the Joy of Creamy Smothered Chicken!
Our creamy smothered chicken recipe is designed to be a crowd-pleaser, effortlessly balancing rich flavors with comforting textures. We’d love to hear how your dish turns out! Share your results with us in the comments below or tag us in your social media posts. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family you think would enjoy it!
Creamy Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- heavy cream
- chicken broth
- onion
- garlic
- butter
- olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Gather all your ingredients and measure out the cream, chicken broth, and spices.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side.
- Remove chicken and add butter to the same skillet, then sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to skillet, coat with sauce, and simmer for another 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley.