The creamy smothered chicken breast is a delectable dish that combines the juicy essence of chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that takes comfort food to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress dinner guests, this recipe will not disappoint. Savory, flavorful, and irresistibly smooth, it’s a staple dish that’s simple yet elegant.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast – Step By Step
Step 1: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 3 minutes. This adds a base of flavor to the rich sauce that will come together shortly.
Step 3: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue to cook for about 4-5 minutes. Mushrooms add a lovely earthiness that pairs perfectly with the cream, delivering depth to the dish.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. This step deglazes the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits from the bottom. It’s crucial for layering the flavors in the sauce.
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take around 5 minutes. Remove from heat once you’ve achieved a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 6: Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well-integrated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast
This delightful dish is best served with a side of steamed vegetables or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of the rich, creamy sauce. It’s a versatile meal that pairs well with a simple green salad or even some crusty bread for a complete comforting dinner.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
The key to a perfect creamy smothered chicken breast is patience with the sauce. Ensure the heat is not too high during the simmering process to prevent the cream from curdling. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a splash of white wine before the cream thicken.
High Protein Powerhouse: Chicken Breast with a Protein Punch
Maximize the muscle-building benefits of this dish by swapping out traditional cream for a protein-enriched alternative. Consider using Greek yogurt or coconut milk, which can enrich your meal with more protein content without losing the creamy texture.
Low-Carb Delight: Keto-Friendly Smothered Chicken
For a low-carb version, simply replace the heavy cream with almond milk and opt for a low-carb cheese variety. This adjustment ensures the creamy texture endures while keeping the dish keto-friendly, providing a satisfying, guilt-free meal.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover creamy smothered chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, creamy smothered chicken can be frozen for up to a month, although the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well when reheating.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative? Yes, substitute chicken with cauliflower steaks or halloumi slices.
- Can I use boneless thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs will add extra juiciness to the dish.
- How can I thicken the sauce? If needed, mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and add to the simmering sauce.
Wrap-Up: Your Go-To Comfort Meal
If you’re looking for a go-to comfort dish that combines ease, taste, and elegance, the creamy smothered chicken breast is your new best friend. Dive into the delightful flavors, share this recipe with friends, and leave a comment with your own tweaks. Enjoy a serving of this delicious concoction, and don’t forget to share your experience!
Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- olive oil
- heavy cream
- chicken broth
- onion
- garlic
- mushrooms
- Parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper
- fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear them on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes each side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, approximately 3 minutes. This adds a base of flavor to the rich sauce that will come together shortly.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and continue to cook for about 4-5 minutes. Mushrooms add a lovely earthiness that pairs perfectly with the cream, delivering depth to the dish.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. This step deglazes the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits from the bottom. It's crucial for layering the flavors in the sauce.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently. Stir continuously until the sauce begins to thicken, which should take around 5 minutes. Remove from heat once you've achieved a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them in the creamy sauce. Simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors are well-integrated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.