Welcome to the cozy comfort of our delightful creamy smothered chicken breast recipe. Perfectly tender chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, savory sauce — it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or planning a special family meal, this foolproof dish offers both simplicity and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This step ensures that the chicken forms a nice crust when seared.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 3 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and thyme, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Let it reduce slightly, then add the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Step 5: Smother the Chicken
Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cover and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color, and serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy the luscious flavors of your creamy smothered chicken breast.
How to Serve Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast
For a balanced meal, pair this dish with steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans. Mashed potatoes or a side of rice help soak up the delicious sauce, bringing the meal together beautifully.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of herbs and olive oil an hour before cooking. If you prefer an earthy kick, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Packed with Protein: The High Protein Version
This recipe naturally lends itself to a high-protein diet. By using lean chicken breasts and rich, creamy elements, you’re not only getting the right taste balance but a significant protein punch perfect for muscle building and satiety.
Consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese before serving to amplify the protein content. Amp up the meal with sides of quinoa or chickpea pasta for a wholesome protein-rich explosion.
Make it Low Carb: A Tasty Low-Carb Twist
If you’re aiming to keep the carb count low, this chicken breast recipe fits right in. Substitute heavy cream with a coconut milk alternative, maintaining the creamy texture without the carbs.
Serve this creamy delight over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh vegetable salad to keep things light yet satisfying. It’s a winning choice for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture. Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended as it might alter the sauce’s consistency.
FAQs
- Can I use other cuts of chicken? Yes, thighs would work well too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free alternative.
- Can I add vegetables to the dish? Absolutely! Spinach or kale can be added at the end of the cooking time for a nutritional boost.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, all ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Why Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast is a Must-Try!
This creamy smothered chicken breast is as delicious as it is satisfying. Its rich and comforting blend of flavors has made it a beloved dish for countless families. Enjoyed on a cozy night in, it promises to leave your loved ones satisfied and smiling. Don’t forget to share your results and thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Creamy Smothered Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken breasts
- olive oil
- sliced mushrooms
- chicken broth
- heavy cream
- garlic minced
- dried thyme
- salt and pepper
- fresh parsley
Instructions
Steps
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken breasts until golden brown, then set aside.
- Sauté mushrooms in the skillet; add minced garlic and thyme, stirring for a minute.
- Add chicken broth and scrape pan, then pour in heavy cream and let simmer to thicken.
- Return chicken to skillet, cover with sauce, and cook until chicken is tender.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.