Who doesn’t love a comforting dish that promises delicious flavors with every bite? Our creamy smothered chicken recipe is designed to satisfy your cravings with a luscious sauce enveloping tender chicken pieces. It’s not only easy to make but also a delightful way to bring classic home-cooked goodness to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipments
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken – Step By Step
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This simple step ensures that the chicken is flavorful right from the start, setting the stage for a mouthwatering dish.
Step 2 – Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3 – Saute the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Saute them over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step builds the aromatic base for your sauce.
Step 4 – Create the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5 – Finish the Dish
Stir in the Dijon mustard and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Let them simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken
To serve, place the chicken breasts on a plate and generously spoon the creamy sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
This recipe is versatile enough to accommodate a variety of personal touches. You could add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper into the sauce.
Pumped-Up Protein Version: High-Protein Creamy Smothered Chicken
If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, swap out the regular chicken breasts for leaner, high-protein cuts like chicken tenderloins. You can also add a sprinkle of protein powder to the sauce—just ensure it’s an unflavored variety to maintain the dish’s savory profile.
Carb-Conscious Delight: Low Carb Creamy Smothered Chicken
Watching the carbs? Consider using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a low-carb swap. Pair this chicken with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles and enjoy a sumptuous, guilt-free meal that remains creamy and satisfying.
Storage Instructions
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid freezing as the sauce may separate.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used and may even offer a juicier result. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly as thighs may take longer.
- Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free? Absolutely! Use coconut cream or dairy-free substitutes for the heavy cream to keep it lactose-intolerant friendly.
- What can I use instead of flour for a gluten-free option? You can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce.
- How can I make the dish more flavorful? Consider adding in finely chopped herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Can I prepare this in advance? While it’s best fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken a day ahead; combine them right before serving.
Culinary Conclusion: Rediscovering Creamy Comfort
This creamy smothered chicken recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity in the kitchen. Steeped in tradition yet adaptable for modern diets, it offers something for everyone. Try it, share it with family and friends, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
Creamy Smothered Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- olive oil
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- all-purpose flour
- onion
- garlic
- Dijon mustard
- salt and pepper
- fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside.
- Add onions and garlic to the same skillet and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in flour and cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in broth and cream.
- Stir in mustard, season to taste, and return chicken to skillet. Simmer until heated through.