Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy – The sour cream sauce adds a luxurious texture and tangy depth of flavor.
- Customizable – Can be paired with a variety of side dishes for a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly – Mild yet flavorful, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create thinner fillets. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Cook the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, then add the chicken broth and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
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Add the Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream and dried thyme, mixing well until smooth. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. If using Parmesan, add it now and stir until melted.
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Simmer the Chicken: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Cover and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
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Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with your favorite side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Variations
- Mushroom Sour Cream Sauce – Add sliced mushrooms when cooking the onions for extra depth.
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herbed Sour Cream Sauce – Stir in fresh dill, basil, or chives for a fresh flavor boost.
- Dairy-Free Alternative – Swap sour cream for dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great alternative and adds a similar tangy flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables all pair well with this creamy chicken.
How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
Use low to medium heat and avoid boiling the sauce. Stir well while adding sour cream to keep it smooth.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Sear the chicken, then bake in a covered dish at 375°F for about 20 minutes with the sauce.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in while simmering.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and sear the chicken in advance, then finish cooking when ready to serve.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions to the sauce.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Simply add a bit more chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Serve it with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a low-carb option.
Conclusion
Chicken Breast in Sour Cream Sauce is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, flavorful sauce pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, making it a satisfying meal that comes together quickly. Whether served with pasta, rice, or veggies, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal in no time!