Sour Cream and Onion Chicken

Short description

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken is a flavorful, creamy dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and smothered in a tangy sour cream and onion sauce. With a touch of garlic and herbs, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic flavors of sour cream and onion in a savory main dish

• Quick and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients

• Great for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining

• Can be served with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables

• Adaptable with baked or skillet options depending on your preference

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced or pounded)

• Salt and black pepper

• Garlic powder

• Olive oil

• Butter

• Yellow onion, thinly sliced

• Garlic, minced

• Chicken broth

• Worcestershire sauce

• Sour cream

• Fresh chives

• Fresh dill (optional)

• Panko breadcrumbs or crushed fried onions

• Lemon wedges (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Season the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sliced onions. Cook over medium heat until soft and lightly caramelized, about 10–15 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the skillet to deglaze.

5. Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and warmed through. Do not boil.

6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Sprinkle with fresh chives and dill if using. Garnish with lemon wedges before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Baked version: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of sour cream, onion powder, and lemon juice, then coat with crushed fried onions or breadcrumbs and bake at 425°F for 20–30 minutes.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Herb-focused: Enhance the sauce with parsley, thyme, or tarragon.

• Low-carb: Omit the breadcrumb topping and serve with low-carb sides like roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash.

• Air fryer option: Coat the marinated chicken with breadcrumbs or crushed onions and air fry at 390°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or sour cream if the sauce needs loosening. For breaded versions, reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

• Freezing: Not recommended for creamy sauces as they may separate when thawed.

FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use?

Thin-sliced or pounded boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for even cooking and tenderness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are a flavorful alternative and remain juicy when cooked.

Is marinating the chicken necessary?

Marinating is optional but adds depth of flavor, especially for baked or air-fried versions.

How can I prevent the sour cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low and avoid boiling after adding sour cream to maintain a smooth sauce.

Can I substitute low-fat sour cream?

Yes, but full-fat sour cream provides a richer texture and flavor. Low-fat versions may result in a thinner sauce.

What are the best sides to serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, roasted green beans, or a crisp green salad pair nicely.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F. A meat thermometer ensures accuracy.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting them entirely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the sauce and chicken in advance and reheat gently before serving. However, breaded versions are best served fresh.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or cook in batches as needed.

Conclusion

Sour Cream and Onion Chicken brings together the familiar flavors of a favorite snack in a satisfying and elegant dish. Whether served creamy or with a crispy crust, this recipe is both comforting and versatile, making it a valuable addition to your weeknight rotation

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