This easy smothered chicken is a warm and hearty dish! Tender chicken breasts are cooked in a creamy, flavorful sauce that just makes you want to grab a big spoon.
Trust me, the best part is how quick it is to whip up. I like serving mine with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up that tasty sauce—yum! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor and juicier texture instead.
Onions: Sliced onions add sweetness and depth to the sauce. You can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor or use frozen chopped onions for convenience.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich and creamy sauce. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For dairy-free, consider coconut cream or almond milk with a thickening agent like cornstarch.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika gives great flavor. You can switch out the paprika for smoked paprika to add a nice twist or use Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Chicken to Cook Just Right?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but here’s how to ensure it turns out perfectly tender! The key is to sear the chicken well to lock in juices. Follow these tips:
- Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the skillet. Sear each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
- Always let the chicken rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices!
- Make sure to check the internal temperature—165°F is the goal for fully cooked chicken.
Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple smothered chicken recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to impress any guest!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This adds flavor right from the beginning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F). Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook over medium heat for around 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent. This step brings out their sweetness!
4. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
5. Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and watch as it starts to thicken!
7. Stir in Heavy Cream:
Add the heavy cream to the mixture and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You want it to be creamy and delicious.
8. Return the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts back into the skillet, spoon some of the sauce over them, reduce the heat to low, and cover. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10 minutes to absorb all that flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your smothered chicken with chopped fresh parsley if you’d like, and serve it hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your delicious and easy dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they remain juicy and tender. Just adjust the cooking time a bit; thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through compared to breasts.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk combined with a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Adjust the seasoning to taste, as coconut cream can impart a subtle flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Freeze the Smothered Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the smothered chicken! Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
