There’s a certain joy that comes from cooking that can turn an ordinary weeknight into something special. Picture this: you stroll into your kitchen, and as you glance over your ingredients, inspiration strikes. This is how I discovered my mouthwatering Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, rich dish that perfectly combines tender chicken with the warm, familiar flavors of garlic and onion.
Perfect for those evenings when you crave something comforting yet low-carb, this recipe is a delightful way to break free from the monotony of takeout. The silky sauce clings to each piece of chicken, promising a balance of tangy goodness that pairs beautifully with everything from fluffy mashed potatoes to a crisp side salad. Join me as we dive into this flavor-packed journey that’s as quick to make as it is satisfying to share!
Why You’ll Love This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Simplicity at Its Finest: This Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is an incredibly easy dish that requires just a few pantry staples.
Quick Cooking: Ready in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights!
Creamy Delight: The luscious sauce makes every bite decadent without overpowering the flavors of the chicken.
Low-Carb Loving: Ideal for those on a low-carb diet, satisfying your cravings while keeping it healthy.
Versatile Pairing: Serve this dish with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.
With just a few ingredients, you’ll create a remarkable centerpiece that’ll impress family and friends alike!
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Ingredients
• Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
- Chicken Breasts – Main protein. Use skinless for lower fat; consider boneless for quicker cooking.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp) – Adds flavor depth. Fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a more intense flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Seasoning. Adjust to taste; consider using garlic salt for added flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Cooking fat for searing. Use any neutral oil or butter if preferred.
- Butter (2 tbsp, divided) – Enriches sauce and helps with browning. Substitute with ghee for a lactose-free version.
- Onion (1 medium, sliced) – Base for the sauce, provides sweetness. Shallots can be used for a milder flavor; leeks add a unique twist.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced) – Fresh aromatics. Increase if a stronger garlic flavor is desired.
- Chicken Broth (1/2 cup) – Liquid base for sauce. Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter version.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp) – Adds umami depth. Soy sauce can serve as a substitute, though it alters flavor.
- Sour Cream (1 cup, full-fat) – Creamy sauce base. Low-fat sour cream may work, keeping in mind it could alter creaminess.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley (optional) – For garnish. Chives or green onions can provide a similar fresh touch.
How to Make Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
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Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor.
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Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
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Sauté Onions: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the sliced onion. Sauté until the onions are softened and lightly browned, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it for the best flavor.
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Create Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in sour cream and heat until blended and warmed through, avoiding boiling.
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Combine: Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over each piece. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve garnished with parsley.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives for an added burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with your dish! Experimenting can lead to delightful new flavors that your family will love.
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Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy flavor and extra texture. This addition creates a hearty and rich variation that enhances the overall dish.
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Pork Chops: Swap chicken for pork chops for a different yet equally delicious protein. The pork pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, bringing a new depth to your meal.
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Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lighter version. This swap will not only reduce fat but also add a lovely zing to every bite, making it a guilt-free delight.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the sautéing onions for a fragrant twist. These herbs can elevate the dish’s aroma and bring a freshness that complements the creamy sauce.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This simple tweak can create an exciting balance of flavors, giving your dish a warming kick.
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Vegetable Boost: Stir in some spinach or kale before adding the sour cream for a nutritious boost. These leafy greens will wilt beautifully and help brighten the dish while keeping it low-carb.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a bit of lemon zest into the sauce for a refreshing citrus note. This addition helps to cut through the creaminess and adds a vibrant brightness to the rich flavors.
With these variations, you can make each batch of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Sour Cream and Onion Chicken?
Imagine the joy of transforming your dinner table into a culinary delight with complementary sides that elevate your meal to new heights.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture soaks up the chicken’s luscious sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
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Garlic Roasted Broccoli: With its crispy edges and subtle garlic flavor, this veggie dish introduces a crunchy contrast to the creamy chicken, ensuring a balanced meal.
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Crispy Green Salad: Fresh greens topped with a zesty vinaigrette add a refreshing element, cleansing the palate between bites of the rich dish.
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Cauliflower Rice: This low-carb alternative offers a light and fluffy base, absorbing the savory sauce while keeping your meal healthy and satisfying.
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Butter Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with herbs pairs beautifully, allowing the creamy sauce to shine while adding a flavorful depth to the dish.
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Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery slices of garlic bread provide an irresistible way to scoop up every bit of that creamy sauce.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled white wine complements the flavors effortlessly, adding a sophisticated touch to your mealtime experience.
Creating a well-rounded meal is all about striking that perfect balance between creamy and refreshing, savory and crisp.
Make Ahead Options
These Sour Cream and Onion Chicken are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for quick assembly during busy weeknights. Simply refrigerate the seared chicken in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. The creamy sauce can be prepped up to 3 days ahead—just sauté the onions, add the garlic, and mix in the broth and Worcestershire sauce. Refrigerate the sauce separately, and when you’re ready to serve, gently reheat it in the skillet, stir in the sour cream, and add the chicken back. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comforting flavors of Sour Cream and Onion Chicken with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
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Chicken Thickness: Make sure to slice the chicken breasts evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly, preventing any pieces from being dry.
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Heat Control: Keep an eye on the skillet’s heat while sautéing onions to avoid burning. If needed, lower the heat to achieve that perfect caramelization.
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Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, allow it to simmer gently longer. But be cautious not to let the sour cream boil, as this can curdle the sauce.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion enhance the overall flavor significantly. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible for your Sour Cream and Onion Chicken.
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Taste as You Go: Season incrementally and adjust to your preference; it’s the secret to elevating the taste of your creamy sauce.
How to Store and Freeze Sour Cream and Onion Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the creamy chicken in an airtight freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy sauce’s consistency.
Avoid Curdling: Be cautious not to boil the sauce while reheating; instead, warm it over low heat, stirring frequently to keep it creamy and luscious!
Sour Cream and Onion Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Skinless, boneless chicken breasts are ideal for this Sour Cream and Onion Chicken. They cook quickly and yield tender results. If you prefer, you can also use thighs for a more flavorful option, just remember to adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer.
How should I store the leftovers?
To keep your delicious chicken fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze Sour Cream and Onion Chicken?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the cooled chicken and sauce in an airtight freezer bag or container, ensuring all air is pushed out. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date for your reference.
What if my sauce is too thick?
No worries at all! If you find your sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash of chicken broth and gently stir over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will keep it creamy without sacrificing flavor.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Very! If you’re concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, opt for ghee instead of butter for a lactose-free version. Additionally, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, making sure to adjust the quantity to maintain creaminess. Always check your chicken broth as well, as some brands may contain allergens.
How can I tell if my chicken is cooked properly?
To ensure perfect doneness, use an instant-read thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, another method is to cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the meat should be white and the juices should run clear, not pink. Happy cooking!
Irresistible Sour Cream and Onion Chicken in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the sliced onion. Sauté until the onions are softened and lightly browned, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it for the best flavor.
- Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in sour cream and heat until blended and warmed through, avoiding boiling.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and spoon the creamy sauce over each piece. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve garnished with parsley.