Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce: A Simple and Creamy Comfort Dish
Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a deliciously creamy and savory dish that brings a tender chicken breast together with a rich, velvety sour cream sauce. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, as it is quick, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor. The sour cream sauce adds a luxurious texture that complements the lean chicken perfectly, creating a dish that is satisfying and comforting.
This simple yet elegant recipe can be paired with a variety of sides, from rice and potatoes to vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want a delicious meal after a long day, Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is the answer. For another creamy chicken dish, try Chicken Alfredo Pasta or Chicken Marsala.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
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Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a simple yet flavorful dish that features tender chicken breasts simmered in a creamy, tangy sour cream sauce. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. The combination of sour cream, garlic, and herbs creates a rich sauce that coats the chicken beautifully for a satisfying and delicious dish.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or other preferred herbs)
For the Sour Cream Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat or light)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F/75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside, covering it loosely with foil to keep warm.
Make the Sour Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits from the chicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the sour cream, Dijon mustard (if using), and lemon juice. Stir to combine until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Combine the Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through and allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Serve:
- Serve the chicken breasts with the sour cream sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat the sauce before serving and add the cooked chicken.
- For a lighter version: Use reduced-fat sour cream and chicken broth to lower the calorie content of this dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce Recipe
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sour Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring it to a simmer, then stir in the sour cream and dried thyme. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine the Chicken with the Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet with the sour cream sauce. Coat the chicken with the sauce, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Once the chicken is fully coated and warmed through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Advanced Techniques
1. Add Vegetables
To elevate this dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sour cream sauce. These veggies add color, flavor, and extra nutrition to the dish. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onions and garlic before adding the chicken broth.
2. Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor
While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for a leaner option, you can substitute them with chicken thighs for a richer, more flavorful dish. Chicken thighs are juicier and more tender, which makes them a perfect match for the creamy sour cream sauce.
3. Spice It Up
For those who like a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sour cream sauce. This will add a nice spicy kick that complements the creamy richness of the dish. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
4. Use Fresh Herbs
In addition to parsley, you can incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or tarragon into the sauce. Fresh herbs add a burst of brightness and complexity to the dish, making it even more flavorful.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a fantastic meal for leftovers, as the flavors continue to meld together after resting. Here are some tips for storing and reheating this dish:
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing to maintain its texture.
- Freezing: This dish can also be frozen, although the sour cream sauce may lose its creamy texture when thawed. To freeze, place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
- Stovetop: Reheat the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Add a little chicken broth if needed to bring the sauce back to the desired consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
1. Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version of Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce, you can replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk or dairy-free yogurt. There are many great plant-based sour cream options that will still provide a creamy texture while keeping the dish dairy-free.
2. Low-Carb/Keto
To make this dish more keto-friendly, you can serve it with low-carb sides such as cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Additionally, ensure that your chicken broth is low in carbs, as some pre-made broths may contain added sugars.
3. Gluten-Free
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, be sure to check that your chicken broth is labeled gluten-free, as some broths may contain hidden gluten.
4. Add More Vegetables for Extra Fiber
To make the dish more nutritious, you can add more vegetables to the sour cream sauce. Roasted broccoli, green beans, or even cauliflower would work well and add extra fiber to the meal without affecting the creamy texture of the sauce.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken for added flavor, but keep in mind that the skin will not become crispy in the sour cream sauce. If you prefer crispy skin, consider roasting or pan-searing the chicken separately and then adding the sauce after.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will give the sauce a thicker, tangier taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use regular yogurt as well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you like heat, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the sour cream sauce. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked paprika to the sauce.
Can I double the recipe to serve more people?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cook in batches. Ensure that the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is evenly distributed.
What can I serve with Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or a fresh salad.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a quick, simple, and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken breasts and a rich, creamy sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal or hosting a small dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, comforting meal that feels indulgent but is still relatively light.
The versatility of this recipe also allows you to easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re using chicken thighs for extra juiciness or adding vegetables to the sauce for more nutrition, Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a dish that everyone will love. Make sure to enjoy it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.